Gram-positive

[ gram-poz-i-tiv ]
/ ˈgræmˈpɒz ɪ tɪv /

adjective (often lowercase)

(of bacteria) retaining the violet dye when stained by Gram's method.

Origin of Gram-positive

First recorded in 1905–10; see origin at Gram's method

Example sentences from the Web for gram-positive

British Dictionary definitions for gram-positive

Gram-positive

adjective

designating bacteria that retain the violet stain in Gram's method

Medical definitions for gram-positive

gram-positive

adj.

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

Scientific definitions for gram-positive

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.