Microbiology is a particular branch of scientific study that focuses on microorganisms. This includes bacteria, unicellular organisms and often viruses.

Many terms within microbiology have been introduced into the common vernacular. While the use of these terms in everyday language isn’t incorrect, there are often specific differences in those definitions when discussing them in relation to microbiology.

One of those terms is inoculation. Most people know the inoculate meaning as it relates to vaccines and healthcare. While this is correct, the inoculation definition for the study and practice of microbiology is more specific to introducing microorganisms into environments where they will grow and thrive.