gram-positive (redirected from Gram postive)

gram-pos·i·tive or Gram-pos·i·tive (grmpz-tv)

adj.

Of, relating to, or being a bacterium that retains the violet stain used in Gram's method.

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Gram-positive

adj

(Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Microbiology) designating bacteria that retain the violet stain in Gram's method

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gram-positive

Relating to a group of bacteria that turn a dark-blue color when subjected to a laboratory staining method known as Gram's method. Gram-positive bacteria have relatively thick cell walls and are generally sensitive to the destructive effects of antibiotics or the actions of the body's immune cells. Gram-positive bacteria include beneficial nitrogen-fixing bacteria in soil, as well as the bacteria that cause anthrax, botulism, leprosy, tuberculosis, scarlet fever, and strep throat. Compare gram-negative.

Thesaurus

Adj.

1.

Gram-positive - (of bacteria) being or relating to a bacterium that retains the violet stain used in Gram's method bacteria, bacterium - (microbiology) single-celled or noncellular spherical or spiral or rod-shaped organisms lacking chlorophyll that reproduce by fission; important as pathogens and for biochemical properties; taxonomy is difficult; often considered to be plants confirming, positive - indicating existence or presence of a suspected condition or pathogen; "a positive pregnancy test"