infusorian

(-ən)

noun

  1. any of a former large group (Infusoria) of microscopic animals found in infusions of decayed organic matter and in stagnant water
  2. any of a former class (Infusoria) of protozoans found in most water, characterized by cilia which permit free movement, as paramecia or stentors

Origin: < ModL (animalcula infusoria), neut. pl. of infusorius, pertaining to infusions (< L infusus: see infuse) + -an

adjective

of this group or class
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