bioactive

adjective

bio·​ac·​tive ˌbī-ō-ˈak-tiv 

: having an effect on a living organism

bioactive molecules

bioactivity

ˌbī-ō-ak-ˈti-və-tē 

noun

Examples of bioactive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Research indicates that watercress contains abundant levels of bioactive compounds, including glucosinolates, isothiocyanates, and flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. — Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 19 Oct. 2026

This wild mushroom has already been recognized for its strong bioactive properties, and its flavor-enhancing power – particularly by researchers across Asia. — New Atlas, 18 Oct. 2026

This year, Image Skincare released its first product formulated with EDL, a patented bioactive skin-tightening ingredient developed in-house. — Ellen Thomas, Vogue, 5 Oct. 2026

Set the scene On rugged John’s Island 40 minutes outside of Charleston, Auberge’s Lowcountry debut deftly centers the coastal charm of the South Carolina sea islands—the second most bioactive habitat in the world, after only the Amazon Rainforest. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for bioactive

• attractive
• contractive
• extractive
• inactive
• proactive
• reactive
• refractive
• subtractive
• active
• tractive
• hyperactive
• interactive

Medical Definition

bioactive

adjective

bio·​ac·​tive -ˈak-tiv 

: having an effect on a living organism

bioactive molecules

bioactive pharmaceuticals and pesticides

bioactivity

-ak-ˈtiv-ət-ē 

noun

plural bioactivities