broad-spectrum

adjective

broad-spec·​trum ˈbrȯd-ˈspek-trəm 

1

: effective against a wide range of organisms (such as insects or bacteria)

a broad-spectrum antibiotic

2

: effective in protecting skin from ultraviolet radiation by absorbing or blocking both UVA and UVB rays

broad-spectrum sunscreens

Examples of broad-spectrum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

With buildable coverage in 14 flexible shades, broad-spectrum SPF 50 and hydrating ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, this skin tint ticks off a lot of boxes. —Jené Luciani Sena May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 29 July 2025

Tang recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and sun-protective clothing. —Cindy Krischer Goodman, Sun Sentinel, 28 July 2025

Mice who’d been treated with a broad-spectrum antibiotic were divided into three groups. —New Atlas, 26 July 2025

Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 30 or higher and reapply as necessary, at least every two hours. —Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 25 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for broad-spectrum

• electrum
• spectrum

Medical Definition

broad-spectrum

adjective

1

: effective against a wide range of organisms (as insects or bacteria)

broad-spectrum antibiotics

compare narrow-spectrum

2

: effective in protecting skin from ultraviolet radiation by absorbing or blocking both UVA and UVB rays

broad-spectrum suncreen