antimicrobial

adjective

an·​ti·​mi·​cro·​bi·​al ˌan-ti-mī-ˈkrō-bē-əl How to pronounce antimicrobial (audio)
: destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and especially pathogenic microorganisms
antimicrobial noun

Examples of antimicrobial in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Lelubé is pH-compatible, antimicrobial, and free of fragrance and flavor. Grace McCarty, Glamour, 18 Mar. 2026 Applicable to denim, knitwear and home textiles, the fiber is reportedly stronger than cotton and contains antimicrobial and moisture-wicking properties. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 17 Mar. 2026 Antibiotics can be lifesaving medications for treating infections, but scientists have long worried about how overuse may be fueling antimicrobial resistance — the rise of bacterial strains that are unresponsive to these medications. Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 12 Mar. 2026 Research indicates that oysters possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 12 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for antimicrobial

Word History

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of antimicrobial was in 1883

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Antimicrobial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antimicrobial. Accessed 21 Mar. 2026.

Medical Definition

antimicrobial

1 of 2 adjective
an·​ti·​mi·​cro·​bi·​al ˌant-i-mī-ˌkrō-bē-əl How to pronounce antimicrobial (audio)
variants also antimicrobic
: destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and especially pathogenic microorganisms

antimicrobial

2 of 2 noun
variants also antimicrobic
: an antimicrobial substance
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster