1. A parasitic protozoan of the genus Plasmodium that causes malaria in humans and other animals.
Usage: Biology/Medicine term; Usually capitalized when referring to the genus
2. A multinucleate mass of protoplasm formed by the fusion of myxamoeba cells in slime molds.
Usage: Biology term; Refers to a stage in the life cycle of myxomycetes

Examples

• Plasmodium falciparum is the most dangerous species of malaria parasite.
• Mosquitoes transmit plasmodium to humans through their bites.
• The life cycle of plasmodium involves both human and mosquito hosts.
• Scientists study plasmodium to develop new antimalarial drugs.
• The plasmodium stage of slime molds can grow quite large on decaying wood.