cytophagous

/saɪˈtoʊˌfæɡəs/

Definitions

1. adjective

feeding on cells, especially bacteria or other microorganisms

“The cytophagous bacteria in the patient’s bloodstream caused a severe infection.”

2. noun

an organism that feeds on cells, especially bacteria or other microorganisms

“The cytophagous organism broke down the dead bacteria in the soil.”

Synonyms

  • cell-consuming
  • cell-eating
  • cell-feeding

Antonyms

  • cell-preserving
  • cell-protecting