gram-positive

adjective

gram-pos·​i·​tive ˈgram-ˈpä-zə-tiv How to pronounce gram-positive (audio)
-ˈpäz-tiv
: holding the purple dye when stained by Gram's stain
used chiefly of bacteria

Examples of gram-positive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Additionally, fish liver oil has proved to be an effective antibacterial agent against gram-positive bacteria.11 There may be emerging uses for cod liver oil extract in antibacterial topical ointments. Hannah Coakley, Msph, Rdn, Verywell Health, 31 July 2024 Bacteria populations in the average human gut are roughly split between gram-negative and gram-positive types, said Kristen Munoz, a former doctoral student at the University of Illinois who co-led the study. Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 20 June 2024 Penicillin is available by prescription and can treat gram-positive bacteria that cause illnesses such as strep throat, tetanus, and tonsillitis. Jenny Sweigard, Verywell Health, 16 Nov. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1907, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gram-positive was in 1907

Dictionary Entries Near gram-positive

Cite this Entry

“Gram-positive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gram-positive. Accessed 10 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

gram-positive

adjective
gram-pos·​i·​tive ˈgram-ˈpäz-ət-iv, -ˈpäz-tiv How to pronounce gram-positive (audio)
: holding the purple dye when stained by Gram's stain
used chiefly of bacteria
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