serotype: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (C2)Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “serotype” mean?
A distinct variation within a species of microorganism (especially bacteria or virus) classified based on the antigens on its surface that trigger an immune response.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A distinct variation within a species of microorganism (especially bacteria or virus) classified based on the antigens on its surface that trigger an immune response.
To classify a microorganism into such a distinct variation based on its surface antigens. Also used more broadly in immunology to refer to groups of cells or organisms sharing a characteristic set of antigens.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Spelling follows national conventions (e.g., 'serotyped' vs. 'serotyped' is the same).
Connotations
Identical technical meaning and usage.
Frequency
Equally low and confined to technical fields in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “serotype” in a Sentence
Noun: the [pathogen] serotypeVerb: to serotype [a sample/bacterium]Passive: The isolate was serotyped.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “serotype” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The reference laboratory will serotype the Salmonella isolates from the outbreak.
- All viral samples need to be serotyped before we can map the transmission.
American English
- The CDC serotyped the bacteria and confirmed it was strain O157:H7.
- We haven't finished serotyping the pneumococcal cultures yet.
adjective
British English
- The serotype distribution in the population has changed since the vaccine was introduced.
- Serotype diversity is high in some regions.
American English
- Serotype-specific immunity is crucial for vaccine effectiveness.
- They conducted a serotype analysis on all samples.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Core term in microbiology, immunology, epidemiology, and public health research papers and textbooks.
Everyday
Virtually never used outside of specific health news reports (e.g., 'a dangerous serotype of dengue virus').
Technical
Essential term in laboratory diagnostics, vaccine development (e.g., conjugate vaccines target specific pneumococcal serotypes), and disease surveillance.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “serotype”
- Using 'serotype' as a general synonym for 'species' or 'genus' (it's a sub-specific classification).
- Misspelling as 'cerotype' or 'sero-type'.
- Pronouncing it /sɛroʊtaɪp/ instead of /ˈsɪroʊˌtaɪp/.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. 'Serotype' is a specific kind of strain defined by its antigenic properties. A single bacterial species can have many different strains, and these can be grouped into serotypes based on their surface antigens.
Yes. Many viruses, such as dengue virus, foot-and-mouth disease virus, and poliovirus, are classified into distinct serotypes based on their surface proteins and the immune response they elicit.
Serotype is defined by phenotypic characteristics (antigens detectable by antibodies), while genotype is defined by the genetic sequence. Two bacteria can be genetically similar but belong to different serotypes if they express different surface molecules.
Serotyping is crucial for tracking disease outbreaks, identifying sources of infection, monitoring the spread of particular strains, and evaluating vaccine effectiveness, as vaccines often target specific, high-risk serotypes.
A distinct variation within a species of microorganism (especially bacteria or virus) classified based on the antigens on its surface that trigger an immune response.
Serotype is usually technical/scientific in register.
Serotype: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsɪərə(ʊ)tʌɪp/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsɪroʊˌtaɪp/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: SERO (as in serum, the part of blood containing antibodies) + TYPE. It's the 'type' identified by antibody reactions in serum.
Conceptual Metaphor
CLASSIFICATION IS TYPING; MICROBES ARE IDENTIFIED BY THEIR COATS (surface antigens).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary basis for defining a serotype?