microbiota

noun

mi·​cro·​bi·​o·​ta ˌmī-krō-bī-ˈō-tə How to pronounce microbiota (audio)
: the microscopic organisms of a particular environment : microbiome sense 1
It's very possible that the master key to unlocking chronic disease will turn out to be the health and composition of the microbiota in your gut.Michael Pollan and Ruth Reichl
microbiotic adjective
the microbiotic environment of the gut

Examples of microbiota in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Avoiding inflammatory foods and sticking to wholesome ingredients that nourish your microbiota naturally. Violeta Valdés, Vogue, 2 July 2025 But the Arizona State University researchers then set out to investigate the enduring effects of the treatment, which involved a bowel cleanse and daily transplants of fecal microbiota over a period of seven to eight weeks. Nick Lavars, New Atlas, 21 Apr. 2025 Because of this, the dinosaur probably relied on its stomach microbiota and fermentation to aid in digestion. Monica Cull, Discover Magazine, 9 June 2025 Studies have found that emulsifiers can alter the mix of bacteria in the gut, known as the microbiome or microbiota; damage the lining of the gastrointestinal tract; and trigger inflammation, potentially contributing to problems elsewhere in the body. David Hilzenrath, Miami Herald, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for microbiota

Word History

Etymology

micro- + biota

First Known Use

1914, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of microbiota was in 1914

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Microbiota.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/microbiota. Accessed 15 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

microbiota

noun
mi·​cro·​bi·​o·​ta -bī-ˈōt-ə How to pronounce microbiota (audio)
: the microscopic organisms of a particular environment : microbiome sense 1
The more we learn about our microbiota, however, the more we realize how easy it is for helpful microbes to get caught in the line of fire between an antibiotic and its intended target.Nathan Wolfe, National Geographic
… the microbiota on the tongue differ from those species living in plaque on teeth.Mel Rosenberg, Scientific American
microbiotic adjective
microbiotic life
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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