plasmid

noun

plas·​mid ˈplaz-məd How to pronounce plasmid (audio)
: an extrachromosomal ring of DNA especially of bacteria that replicates autonomously

Examples of plasmid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The strain also carried a separate genetic element (a plasmid) that provided resistance mechanisms against streptomycin and spectinomycin, cephalosporins, macrolides, and sulphonamides. Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 11 Apr. 2025 Once purified, the plasmids and enzymes are piped into other tanks, where a biochemical reaction produces the dsRNA. Byerik Stokstad, science.org, 27 June 2024 Although the bacteria were genetically different, many contained nearly identical plasmids with the same antibiotic-resistance genes. Melinda Wenner Moyer, Scientific American, 1 Dec. 2016 In July 2021, Thermo Fisher expanded its presence in San Diego County with a 67,000-square-foot plasmid manufacturing facility near its existing Carlsbad campus. Natallie Rocha, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Apr. 2024 See All Example Sentences for plasmid

Word History

Etymology

plasma + -id entry 2

First Known Use

1952, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of plasmid was in 1952

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Cite this Entry

“Plasmid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/plasmid. Accessed 27 Apr. 2025.

Medical Definition

plasmid

noun
plas·​mid ˈplaz-məd How to pronounce plasmid (audio)
: an extrachromosomal ring of DNA that replicates autonomously and is found especially in bacteria compare episome

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