cocc/o-

The scientific term for a spherical-shaped bacterium is coccus (plural: cocci). This term refers to the basic shape of the bacteria, which are round or near-spherical.  

• Arrangements: Cocci can be found alone, in pairs (diplococci), in chains (streptococci), in clusters (staphylococci), or in groups of four (tetrads). 

Examples:

Common examples include Staphylococcus aureus, known for forming clusters, and Streptococcus pneumoniae, which forms chains. 

Etymology:

The word "coccus" comes from the Greek word for "berry," reflecting its round form