How Do You Spell PLEOMORPHISM?

Pronunciation: [plɪˈɒmɔːfˌɪzəm] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "pleomorphism" can be intimidating for many people, but understanding its phonetic transcription can make it easier to remember. The word is pronounced /ˌpliːoʊˈmɔːfɪz(ə)m/, with the stress falling on the second syllable. The first syllable is pronounced with a long "e" sound, and the second syllable starts with the "ow" diphthong. The ending "-ism" is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by the "zm" consonant cluster. With these components, spelling "pleomorphism" should be much simpler.

PLEOMORPHISM Meaning and Definition

1. Pleomorphism is a term used in various scientific fields, such as biology and medicine, to describe the ability of a microorganism or cell to exist in multiple forms or morphologies. Derived from the Greek words "pleon," meaning "more," and "morphe," meaning "form," pleomorphism refers to the phenomenon where an organism or cell can exhibit different structural characteristics, shapes, or sizes, either temporarily or permanently.

   In microbiology, pleomorphism is commonly observed in certain bacteria, fungi, and viruses, showcasing the ability of these microorganisms to change their appearance or morphology in response to the surrounding environment or under specific conditions. This adaptability may involve transformations in shape, structural organization, or metabolic activity, allowing the microorganism to survive, evade the immune system, or cause disease.

   In medicine, pleomorphism often refers to the variation of cell size and shape within a tissue or tumor. It is particularly relevant in the field of pathology, where pathologists examine and classify cells based on their morphological features to determine the nature and stage of diseases, such as cancer. Pleomorphic cells or tumors demonstrate significant heterogeneity, exhibiting dissimilar and irregular shapes and sizes when compared to normal cells.

   Overall, pleomorphism is a term that describes the inherent ability of microorganisms or cells to exist in diverse forms, highlighting the dynamic nature and adaptability of these biological entities.

2. Occurrence in more than one form; the existence in the same species or other natural group of more than one type; polymorphism.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PLEOMORPHISM

• oleomorphism
• lleomorphism
• -leomorphism
• 0leomorphism
• pkeomorphism
• ppeomorphism
• poeomorphism
• plwomorphism
• plsomorphism
• pldomorphism
• plromorphism
• pl4omorphism
• pl3omorphism
• pleimorphism
• plekmorphism
• plelmorphism
• plepmorphism
• ple0morphism
• ple9morphism

Etymology of PLEOMORPHISM

The word "pleomorphism" is derived from the Greek roots "pleon" meaning "more" or "excessive", and "morphē" meaning "form" or "shape". So, the etymology of "pleomorphism" indicates that it refers to the concept of having multiple forms or shapes.

Similar spelling words for PLEOMORPHISM

• pleomorphic,
• polymorphism.