microbiota

noun

mi·​cro·​bi·​o·​ta ˌmī-krō-bī-ˈō-tə How to pronounce microbiota (audio)
: the microscopic organisms of a particular environment : microbiome sense 1
It's very possible that the master key to unlocking chronic disease will turn out to be the health and composition of the microbiota in your gut.Michael Pollan and Ruth Reichl
microbiotic adjective
the microbiotic environment of the gut

Examples of microbiota in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Studies have found that emulsifiers can alter the mix of bacteria in the gut, known as the microbiome or microbiota; damage the lining of the gastrointestinal tract; and trigger inflammation, potentially contributing to problems elsewhere in the body. David Hilzenrath, CNN Money, 19 May 2025 Avoid tillage entirely to preserve soil microbiota. Christopher Marquis, Forbes.com, 17 Apr. 2025 Research has found that berberine may improve unhealthy gut microbiota. Karen Berger, Pharmd, Verywell Health, 11 Apr. 2025 Metabolites produced by gut microbiota: These are molecules naturally created by gut microbiota. Johna Burdeos, Health, 20 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for microbiota

Word History

Etymology

micro- + biota

First Known Use

1914, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of microbiota was in 1914

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Microbiota.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/microbiota. Accessed 22 May. 2025.

Medical Definition

microbiota

noun
mi·​cro·​bi·​o·​ta -bī-ˈōt-ə How to pronounce microbiota (audio)
: the microscopic organisms of a particular environment : microbiome sense 1
The more we learn about our microbiota, however, the more we realize how easy it is for helpful microbes to get caught in the line of fire between an antibiotic and its intended target.Nathan Wolfe, National Geographic
… the microbiota on the tongue differ from those species living in plaque on teeth.Mel Rosenberg, Scientific American
microbiotic adjective
microbiotic life
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