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.
Prickly pear peel extract contains bioactive chemicals such as betalains, which have documented antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. Jennifer Bringle, Footwear News, 17 June 2026 May Support Immune Health Honey also has natural antimicrobial properties that may help fight certain bacteria and support the body’s immune defenses. T'keyah Bazin, Verywell Health, 10 June 2026 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 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 19 Jun. 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
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