biofilm

noun

bio·​film ˌbi-(ˌ)ō-ˈfilm How to pronounce biofilm (audio)
: a thin usually resistant layer of microorganisms (such as bacteria) that form on and coat various surfaces

Examples of biofilm 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.
To start, thoroughly clean drain interiors using a stiff brush to scrape away biofilm and sludge. Thomas Westerholm, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 June 2025 Using a biofilm of Vibrio cholerae bacteria, Yunker’s team described the shape of the emerging biofilm as a spherical cap that resembles a contact lens. Carrie Arnold, Quanta Magazine, 21 Apr. 2025 CagA could also be used to break up bacterial biofilms, which, like walled cities for bacteria, can prevent antibiotics from reaching infections. F.d. Flam, Twin Cities, 2 July 2025 Many persistent sinus infections involve biofilms – colonies of bacteria that group together to resist efforts to kill them. New Atlas, 30 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for biofilm

Word History

First Known Use

1975, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of biofilm was in 1975

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Cite this Entry

“Biofilm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/biofilm. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

biofilm

noun
bio·​film ˈbī-ō-ˌfilm How to pronounce biofilm (audio)
: a thin usually resistant layer of microorganisms (as bacteria) that form on and coat various surfaces (as of catheters or water pipes)
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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