Micrococcus

Micrococcus Mi`cro*coc"cus, n.; pl. {Micrococci}. [NL. See {Micro-}, and {Coccus}.] (Biol.) A genus of {Spherobacteria}, in the form of very small globular or oval cells, forming, by transverse division, filaments, or chains of cells, or in some cases single organisms shaped like dumb-bells ({Diplococcus}), all without the power of motion. See Illust. of {Ascoccus}. [1913 Webster]

Note: Physiologically, micrococci are divided into three groups; chromogenic, characterized by their power of forming pigment; zymogenic, including those associated with definite chemical processes; and pathogenic, those connected with disease. [1913 Webster]