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 For an infected wound, the insects are possibly applying saliva that has antimicrobial compounds and proteins. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 3 Jan. 2024 To give one example, some of them fight off antimicrobial peptides produced by the nematode. Elizabeth Rayne, Ars Technica, 18 Dec. 2023 The companies will also have to test for the antimicrobial chemical in the air and make sure their pollution controls are working properly. Matthew Daly, Quartz, 14 Mar. 2024 The formula also includes grapefruit oil (which has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties), and vitamin C, which brightens skin, leaving it with a radiant glow. Jamie Allison Sanders, Peoplemag, 28 Feb. 2024 In addition to its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, rosemary oil is also anti-inflammatory, which can help to reduce scalp redness, irritation, and even dandruff. Alyssa Hui, Verywell Health, 17 Jan. 2024 Stainless steel boasts antimicrobial properties, which is great for those with sensitive skin. Sophie Dodd, Peoplemag, 22 Feb. 2024 While this type of synthetic fabric isn't odor-resistant, Patagonia is the first brand to use HeiQ Pure, which adds antimicrobial properties to the fabric to prevent bacteria growth. Marisa Petrarca, Travel + Leisure, 20 Feb. 2024 That substance contained more than 50 different components with antimicrobial or wound-healing properties, the researchers discovered. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 4 Jan. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'antimicrobial.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of antimicrobial was in 1891

Dictionary Entries Near antimicrobial

Cite this Entry

“Antimicrobial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antimicrobial. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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
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