Pronunciation: [ˈanɪmˌalkjuːl] (IPA) 
The word "animalcule" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /ænɪməlkjuːl/. The first syllable "an-" is pronounced as /æn/ and the second syllable "-imal" is pronounced as /ɪməl/. The final syllable "-cule" is pronounced as /kjuːl/. The word animalcule is used to describe microscopic organisms or creatures such as bacteria, protozoa or algae. This term is commonly used in biology and microscopy.
An animalcule refers to a tiny living organism that is so small that it can only be seen under a microscope. The word originated from Latin, where "animal" means living organism, and the suffix "-cule" denotes something small. Thus, an animalcule is a minuscule creature classified within the animal kingdom.
Animalcules are diverse, encompassing various microorganisms such as bacteria, protozoa, and microscopic multicellular animals. They inhabit different environments including water sources, soil, and the human body. Examples of animalcules include amoebas, paramecia, and rotifers, all of which live in aquatic environments and can be observed under a microscope.
The study of animalcules is crucial as they play important roles within ecosystems. Some animalcules act as decomposers, breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients, while others serve as primary producers, converting energy from sunlight into organic substances. Additionally, certain animalcules are pathogens, causing diseases in both humans and other animals.
Due to their small size, animalcules have historically been an enigma to scientists. The invention of the microscope revolutionized our understanding of the natural world, allowing researchers to investigate and discover these previously unseen organisms. Modern microscopy techniques continue to unveil new insights into the fascinating world of animalcules, revealing their intricate structures and intricate life cycles.
A minute, microscopic, unicellular animal organism; protozoan.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A creature very small or very minute, generally invisible to the naked eye.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "animalcule" has Latin origins. It is derived from the Latin word "animalculum", which means "tiny animal". The suffix "-culum" in Latin denotes a diminutive form, indicating something small or little. So "animalcule" essentially translates to "small animal" or "little creature". The term has been used historically to refer to microscopic organisms or small organisms visible to the naked eye.
