Listerian
|lis-ter-i-an|
/lɪˈstɪəriən/
relating to Lister
Etymology
'Listerian' originates from Modern English, specifically the surname 'Lister', where the surname ultimately comes from Old English 'lister' meaning 'dyer'.
'Listerian' developed by adding the adjectival suffix '-ian' (from Latin '-ianus') to the surname 'Lister' (Middle English/Late Old English), producing an adjective meaning 'of or relating to Lister'.
Initially it signified 'of or pertaining to someone named Lister' (the surname rooted in the occupation 'dyer'), but over time it has come to be used specifically for 'relating to Joseph Lister or his antiseptic methods'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to Joseph Lister (1827–1912) or to his antiseptic and surgical methods; characteristic of Lister's approach to antisepsis.
The hospital adopted Listerian techniques to reduce post‑operative infections.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 2
(less common) Relating to the bacterium genus Listeria or to listeriosis (having characteristics of or caused by Listeria).
The outbreak showed several Listerian features that pointed to contamination of refrigerated foods.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/11/22 00:19