antibacterial

adjective

an·​ti·​bac·​te·​ri·​al ˌan-tē-bak-ˈtir-ē-əl  ˌan-ˌtī- 

: directed or effective against bacteria

antibacterial soap

an antibacterial drug

antibacterial noun

In an effort to develop new antifungals, scientists are boning up on previous research on antibacterials.

—Ellen Licking

Examples of antibacterial in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Experts advise against heating honey in the microwave, as the high, uneven heat can destroy raw honey’s natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties and warp its flavor. — Heather Riske, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 July 2026

Robinovitz assured me that Sloomoo Institute slime is changed out weekly and is made onsite with an antibacterial ingredient. — Claire Harutunian, Charlotte Observer, 13 July 2026

The leaves and fruit, which studies show have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties, are also used to treat chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease. — Frannie Comstock, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 June 2026

The monochrome suede upper gives them an expensive feel, while the antibacterial top cloth helps keep sweaty summer feet a little fresher—an underrated bonus. — Annie Blackman, InStyle, 23 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1879, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for antibacterial

• immaterial
• magisterial
• managerial
• ministerial
• nonmaterial
• presbyterial
• arterial
• bacterial
• ethereal
• funereal
• imperial
• material

Kids Definition

antibacterial

adjective

an·​ti·​bac·​te·​ri·​al

ˌant-ē-ˌbak-ˈtir-ē-əl, 

ˌan-ˌtī-ˌbak-

: directed or effective against bacteria

antibacterial soap

Medical Definition

antibacterial

1 of 2 adjective

an·​ti·​bac·​te·​ri·​al ˌant-i-bak-ˈtir-ē-əl  ˌan-ˌtī- 

: directed or effective against bacteria

antibacterial

2 of 2 noun

: an antibacterial agent