antimicrobial

adjective

an·​ti·​mi·​cro·​bi·​al ˌan-ti-mī-ˈkrō-bē-əl 

: destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and especially pathogenic microorganisms

antimicrobial noun

Examples of antimicrobial in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Since 2014, the world has faced COVID-19, Zika, monkeypox, avian influenza concerns, expanding antimicrobial resistance, and recurring hemorrhagic-fever outbreaks. —Steve Brozak, Forbes.com, 25 May 2026

This simple little disk is made from pure copper, which is naturally antimicrobial. —Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 15 May 2026

Albeit pricey, this packable dry steamer produces a finer vapor that is also highly antimicrobial. —Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 15 May 2026

It’s supported by coconut oil, which is full of vitamin E and great for sealing in moisture, and clarifying apple cider vinegar, which has its own antimicrobial and antifungal properties. —Aimee Simeon, Glamour, 7 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for antimicrobial

• microbial

Medical Definition

antimicrobial

1 of 2 adjective

an·​ti·​mi·​cro·​bi·​al ˌant-i-mī-ˌkrō-bē-əl 

variants also antimicrobic

-ˈkrō-bik 

: destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and especially pathogenic microorganisms

antimicrobial

2 of 2 noun

variants also antimicrobic

: an antimicrobial substance