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coliphage

noun

co·​li·​phage ˈkō-lə-ˌfāj How to pronounce coliphage (audio)
-ˌfäzh
: any bacteriophage active against E. coli

Word History

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of coliphage was in 1944

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Cite this Entry

“Coliphage.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coliphage. Accessed 5 Dec. 2025.

Medical Definition

coliphage

noun
co·​li·​phage ˈkō-lə-ˌfāj How to pronounce coliphage (audio)
-ˌfäzh
: a bacteriophage active against coliform bacteria
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