microbial theory
nounUK /maɪˈkrəʊbiəl ˈθɪəri/
US /maɪˈkroʊbiəl ˈθɪri/
The idea that tiny living things called microbes can cause sickness.
The microbial theory helped doctors understand that washing hands stops germs from spreading.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The scientific idea that microbes are everywhere and affect many natural processes.
The microbial theory explains how microbes break down dead leaves in the forest.
3. A way of thinking that looks at how tiny organisms shape health and the environment.
Her research uses the microbial theory to study soil health.
4. The belief that microscopic life plays a key role in causing and spreading disease.
Before the microbial theory, people blamed bad air for illnesses.