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

Cleaning your water bottle with a brush and antibacterial soap after every use will keep germs in check and odors at bay. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 24 Apr. 2026

The technology helps regulate temperature, reduce odor and cut down on the need for frequent washing, thanks to natural antibacterial properties. —Catherine Salfino, Footwear News, 24 Apr. 2026

Manuka honey stands out for its antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to its unique bioactive compounds. —Randi Gollin, Martha Stewart, 17 Apr. 2026

Switch to antibacterial wipes during that pesky cold-and-flu season. —Lauren Bengtson, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Apr. 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