bioactive

adjective

bio·​ac·​tive ˌbī-ō-ˈak-tiv 

: having an effect on a living organism

bioactive molecules

bioactivity

ˌbī-ō-ak-ˈti-və-tē 

noun

Examples of bioactive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Set the scene On rugged John’s Island 40 minutes outside of Charleston, Auberge’s Lowcountry debut deftly centers the coastal charm of the South Carolina sea islands—the second most bioactive habitat in the world, after only the Amazon Rainforest. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Sep. 2026

Yet nicotine isn’t the only bioactive chemical that smokers soak up in large concentrations. — Mike McRae 10, New Atlas, 10 Sep. 2026

The brand recently launched blends made with concentrated botanicals delivered in bioactive Manuka honey. — Alaina Chou, Bon Appetit Magazine, 31 Aug. 2026

Strawberry leaves are higher in bioactive polyphenols and antioxidants than the fruit. — Amy Brownstein, Verywell Health, 18 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for bioactive

• attractive
• contractive
• extractive
• inactive
• proactive
• reactive
• refractive
• subtractive
• active
• tractive
• hyperactive
• interactive

Medical Definition

bioactive

adjective

bio·​ac·​tive -ˈak-tiv 

: having an effect on a living organism

bioactive molecules

bioactive pharmaceuticals and pesticides

bioactivity

-ak-ˈtiv-ət-ē 

noun

plural bioactivities