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
A Gram-positive stool due to cocci is suggestive of intestinal ulceration.
A Manual of Clinical Diagnosis |James Campbell ToddThis method is excellent for differentiating Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms on the same slide.
The Fundamentals of Bacteriology |Charles Bradfield MorreyThe Gram-positive bacteria are violet and the Gram-negative are red.
The Fundamentals of Bacteriology |Charles Bradfield Morrey
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.