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

Beeswax, honey, and pollen each possess their own particular antimicrobial and chemical properties that, taken together, repel disease and encourage helpful fungi. — Amanda Erickson, STAT, 20 Oct. 2026

Research suggests mussels also contain unique compounds that may offer medicinal benefits, including wound healing, as well as antimicrobial and anti-cancer effects. — Joy Emeh, HEALTH, 19 Oct. 2026

While both honey and garlic do have some antimicrobial benefits, the recipes used can promote the growth of Clostridium botulinum. — Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 28 Sep. 2026

Apple cider vinegar combined with honey may aid digestion, blood sugar regulation, and heart health while offering antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits. — Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 17 Sep. 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