motile

Intermediate 🏥 Healthcare / Medical

Definition

Having the ability to move spontaneously and independently, like bacteria with flagella or that coworker who can't sit still during meetings. In biology, this describes organisms or cells capable of self-propulsion. Ironically, it also refers to people whose mental imagery is all about movement and action, which explains why some folks can't think without pacing.

Example Usage

The microbiologist confirmed that the sample contained motile bacteria, as evidenced by their swimming patterns under the microscope.

Source: Biological and medical terminology

Related Terms

Translate This Term

See “motile” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.

Try the Translator