griseofulvin

noun

gris·eo·ful·vin ˌgri-zē-ō-ˈfu̇l-vən

ˌgri-sē-,

-ˈfəl-

: an antibiotic C₁₇H₁₇ClO₆ used systematically in treating superficial fungal infections

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Research has found that the antibiotic rifampin, which is used to treat tuberculosis, and griseofulvin, a drug used to treat fungal infections, may decrease the effectiveness of hormonal birth control pills. —

Korin Miller, SELF, 27 July 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'griseofulvin.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

New Latin griseofulvum, specific epithet of Penicillium griseofulvum, mold from which it is obtained

First Known Use

1939, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of griseofulvin was in 1939

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Griseofulvin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/griseofulvin. Accessed 26 Mar. 2023.

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Medical Definition

griseofulvin

noun

gris·eo·ful·vin ˌgriz-ē-ō-ˈfu̇l-vən

ˌgris-

-ˈfəl-

: a fungistatic antibiotic C₁₇H₁₇ClO₆ used systemically in treating superficial infections by fungi especially of the genera Epidermophyton, Microsporum, and Trichophyton