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

Some of these varieties are also traditionally fermented, a process that can provide probiotics, notes Messer. — Daryl Austin, USA Today, 24 Aug. 2026

Whether the probiotic will be effective enough to compete with existing therapies will require further testing. — Mike McRae 19, New Atlas, 20 Aug. 2026

In addition to its popular omega-3 supplements, Nordic Naturals offers comprehensive lines of probiotics, vitamins and minerals for different life stages, including supplements for children and babies. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 19 Aug. 2026

Yogurt Yogurts that contain live, active cultures are a source of gut-friendly probiotics. — Anthea Levi, HEALTH, 19 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for probiotic

• aprotic
• aquatic
• biotic
• chaotic
• cirrhotic
• demotic
• despotic
• dichotic
• erotic
• euphotic
• exotic
• fibrotic

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