probiotic

noun

pro·​bi·​ot·​ic prō-bī-ˈä-tik 

-bē-ˈä-

: a microorganism (such as lactobacillus) that when consumed (as in a food or a dietary supplement) maintains or restores beneficial bacteria to the digestive tract

also : a product or preparation that contains such microorganisms compare prebiotic

probiotic adjective

Examples of probiotic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In addition to vitamin D, kefir is packed with immune-boosting probiotics. —Kelly Burch, Verywell Health, 5 Mar. 2026

Kombucha Kombucha is a fizzy, fermented tea that contains live probiotics that can improve your gut microbiome. —Lauren Manaker Ms, Health, 4 Mar. 2026

These botanicals work alongside modern actives such as salicylic acid and probiotics, helping keep buildup in check without overdoing it. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 24 Feb. 2026

According to Manaker, miso is concentrated with probiotics, so even a small amount can pack a nutritional punch. —Riley Wofford, Martha Stewart, 23 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

pro- entry 2 + -biotic (as in antibiotic)

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for probiotic

• abiotic
• aeronautic
• apoptotic
• asymptotic
• cyanotic
• eukaryotic
• idiotic
• meiotic
• patriotic
• prebiotic
• prokaryotic
• semiotic

Medical Definition

probiotic

noun

pro·​bi·​ot·​ic prō-bī-ˈät-ik, -bē- 

: a microorganism (such as lactobacillus or bifidobacterium) that when consumed (as in a food or a dietary supplement) maintains or restores beneficial bacteria to the digestive tract

also : a product or preparation that contains such microorganisms compare prebiotic

probiotic adjective