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

Opt for an oil-free, non-comedogenic, broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to shield your skin without weighing it down. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 11 Apr. 2025

So for extra protection, add your favorite sunscreen to your routine (the American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a water-resistant broad-spectrum SPF that’s at least SPF 30). —Catharine Malzahn, Glamour, 9 Apr. 2025

Patients may also receive broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy, fever reducers and pain relievers. —Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 7 Apr. 2025

This presents a tremendous advantage over classical antennas, which require an unwieldy collection of static, often large, antennas to achieve broad-spectrum awareness. —Paul Lipman, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 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