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

Zinc oxide, additionally, provides broad-spectrum physical photoprotection—an essential pillar of collagen protection. —Tatiana Dias, Vogue, 29 May 2026

But those efforts did their part to contribute to the overall sense of the Cannes Film Festival as the center of the moviegoing world for 11 days in May, somewhere where crass corporate product lived alongside uncompromising arthouse efforts in a broad-spectrum display of what constitutes cinema. —Alison Willmore, Vulture, 27 May 2026

The formula — designed with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB face protection, vitamin C and vitamin E — leaves a dewy veil without being too sticky. —Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 23 May 2026

To help prevent infestations, avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides that kill beneficial insects along with the mites. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 22 Apr. 2026

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