Saccharomyces
/ˌsækəroʊˈmaɪsiːz/noun
A genus of yeasts, including the species used in baking, brewing, and biotechnology.
Did you know?Saccharomyces was coined from Greek roots for “sugar” and “fungus,” because these yeasts live on sugars and were early understood through their fermenting power.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
sákcharon
“Sugar; sweet crystalline substance”
Ancient Greek
Greek
mýkēs
“Fungus, mushroom”
19th Century
New Latin
Saccharomyces
“A scientific genus name for yeasts associated with sugar fermentation”
Modern English
English
Saccharomyces
“A genus of yeast, especially species used in fermentation and baking”
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