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.
Discoveries indicate that coffee has significant antimicrobial properties that are effective against a range of bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens in agriculture. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 18 May 2025 However, essential oils that have antimicrobial properties have also been used. Rebeca Schiller, Verywell Health, 16 May 2025 Allure readers with its four-speed antimicrobial brushes that leave skin softer, smoother, and super-duper clean. Sophia Panych, Allure, 15 May 2025 One popular way to cleanse the skin clean in the air is by using an antimicrobial spray, like sensitive skin-friendly hypochlorous acid spray. Jessica Ourisman, Forbes.com, 6 May 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Antimicrobial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antimicrobial. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

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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