spirulina

[ spahy-ruh-lahy-nuh ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

Microbiology. any of three species of the cyanobacteria genus Arthrospira, especially A. platensis, which is widely cultivated as a dietary supplement.
the dietary supplement itself, which is a source of protein, vitamins, and antioxidants:
Add a spoonful of powdered spirulina to your morning smoothie.

spirulina

/ ˌspɪrʊˈlaɪnə; -ˈliːnə /

noun

any filamentous cyanobacterium of the genus Spirulina : processed as a valuable source of proteins and other nutrients

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Word History and Origins

Origin of spirulina¹

First recorded in 1840–50; New Latin, equivalent to spīrul(a) “small coil” + -īna (adjective suffix); so called from their corkscrew shape; spiral, -ina ², -ule,

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Word History and Origins

Origin of spirulina¹

from New Latin spirula small spiral

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Example Sentences

Spirulina is often found growing with Oscillaria, and forms purple patches on wharves.

From Project Gutenberg

In Spirulina the filaments are spirally twisted like a corkscrew and also have a vibrating movement.

From Project Gutenberg

spirula spiry

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