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

That review pushed me to try this sunscreen out for myself, and now it’s become my gel sunscreen of choice that keeps me protected, white cast-free, and feeling good thanks to its nourishing ingredients like probiotics and fruit extracts. —Alexandra Domrongchai, Travel + Leisure, 20 May 2024

Things To Consider Some of their products contain additional nutrients, enzymes, or probiotics that may be unnecessary for you. —Sarah Anzlovar, Ms, Verywell Health, 15 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

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