Trypanosome
/ˌtrɪp.ə.noʊˈsoʊm/noun
A microscopic, elongated parasitic protozoan of the genus Trypanosoma, transmitted by insects or other vectors.
Did you know?The name refers to the organism’s corkscrew-like movement, while medically important trypanosomes include the parasites responsible for sleeping sickness and Chagas disease.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
τρύπανον (trýpanon)
“A drill or boring instrument”
Ancient Greek
Greek
σῶμα (sôma)
“Body”
19th Century
New Latin
Trypanosoma
“A biological genus name combining “drill” and “body,” referring to the organism’s shape and movement”
1843
Scientific Latin
Trypanosoma
“Genus name used for flagellated parasitic protozoans”
Modern English
English
trypanosome
“A protozoan parasite belonging to, or resembling one belonging to, the genus Trypanosoma”