broad-spectrum

adjective

broad-spec·​trum ˈbrȯd-ˈspek-trəm How to pronounce broad-spectrum (audio)
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 Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Jenna Demmer, Health, 13 Apr. 2024 Opting for Full-Spectrum or Broad-Spectrum CBD Oils for Maximum Benefits When selecting a CBD oil for diabetes, consider opting for full-spectrum or broad-spectrum oils rather than isolates. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024 Spider mites are mites — not insects — and the broad-spectrum pesticide kills all the good insects that would have loved to have eaten the spider mites. Rita Perwich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Mar. 2024 This hand cream, which offers broad-spectrum protection, replenishes moisture with a combination of shea butter and avocado and jojoba oils without leaving a slippery feel. Deanna Pai, Vogue, 3 Apr. 2024 The genius two-in-one product is both your powder compact and sunscreen with its color-correcting, oil-absorbing, and broad-spectrum SPF 50 technology. Alexandra Domrongchai, Travel + Leisure, 29 Mar. 2024 Unlike broad-spectrum advertising, which often casts too wide a net, podcasts enable advertisers to reach a highly specific listener base. Curt Steinhorst, Forbes, 29 Mar. 2024 In addition to broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection, the formula contains hydrating ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid to help moisturize the skin barrier. Glamour, 29 Mar. 2024 Thou shall use broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection every day. Audrey Noble, Vogue, 9 Mar. 2024

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

1950, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of broad-spectrum was in 1950

Dictionary Entries Near broad-spectrum

Cite this Entry

“Broad-spectrum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/broad-spectrum. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.

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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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