biofouling

noun

bio·​foul·​ing ˌbi-(ˌ)ō-ˈfau̇-liŋ How to pronounce biofouling (audio)
: the gradual accumulation of waterborne organisms (such as bacteria and protozoa) on the surfaces of engineering structures in water that contributes to corrosion of the structures and to a decrease in the efficiency of moving parts

Examples of biofouling in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Better approaches to mitigate biofouling (fouling of pipes by barnacles or algae), corrosion, and other degradation during long deployments. Courtney Linder, Popular Mechanics, 16 Mar. 2020 The nets were carrying up to 110 tons of biofouling. Lynda V. Mapes, The Seattle Times, 2 Feb. 2018 Desiccation, or removing the baskets from the water once a week, is required to control biofouling of baskets and oysters. Guest Voices, AL.com, 29 Dec. 2017

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'biofouling.' 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

1943, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of biofouling was in 1943

Dictionary Entries Near biofouling

Cite this Entry

“Biofouling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/biofouling. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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