prebiotic

adjective

pre·bi·ot·ic | \ ˌprē-bī-ˈä-tik

Definition of prebiotic

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 : of, relating to, or being chemical or environmental precursors of the origin of life … it is possible that either the prebiotic molecules necessary for the evolution of life or the raw materials from which these molecules formed were brought to Earth by comet-like objects.— Marcia Neugebauer also : existing or occurring before the origin of life … RNA is a chemically fragile molecule, unlikely to survive the harsh prebiotic conditions. — Michael Egholm et al.

2 : of, relating to, or being a prebiotic … next-generation probiotic microbes administered along with the appropriate prebiotic nutrients to nourish them.— Michael Pollan

prebiotic

noun

Definition of prebiotic (Entry 2 of 2)

: a substance and especially a carbohydrate (such as inulin) that is nearly or wholly indigestible and that when consumed (as in food) promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract Prebiotics are naturally found in certain fruits, vegetables, and herbs, including artichoke, asparagus, bananas, chicory, garlic, and onions.— Andrew Weil — compare probiotic

Examples of prebiotic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web: Adjective Each 12-ounce can of Gist has four grams of prebiotic fiber, derived from organic Jerusalem artichokes, with no sugar, sweetener or caffeine. — Elaine Rewolinski, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 4 Oct. 2021 Other celebs like Halsey, Olivia Munn, and fellow Sway boys Bryce Hall and Griffin Johnson have also invested in the prebiotic soda brand. — Samantha Olson, Seventeen, 23 Aug. 2021 In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the actress — who recently partnered with KeVita to promoting their new prebiotic shots — opens up about her never-ending journey to self-love and the importance of self-care. — Christina Dugan, PEOPLE.com, 2 July 2021 This lightweight formula, with nourishing prebiotic oat and calming feverfew, moisturizes for 24 hours. — Noel Cody, Essence, 25 June 2021 The caffeine-free Morning Mocha Latte is made with energizing gingko and maca, and prebiotic chicory root to encourage digestion. — Anna Haines, Forbes, 22 June 2021 Growing up in Brazil, health coach Carolina Poli would regularly eat prebiotic-rich green bananas to help with digestion and clear her skin. — Anna Haines, Forbes, 10 June 2021 This hydrating prebiotic mist can be used throughout the day for a refresh. — Fiorella Valdesolo, WSJ, 8 June 2021 This range is formulated using a proprietary prebiotic complex, which keeps skin balanced and protected. — Bianca Salonga, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2021 Recent Examples on the Web: Noun The star ingredient is koji—a prebiotic and fiber-rich fungus used for centuries across Asia that makes a filling and convincing meat substitute. — Anna Haines, Forbes, 28 Sep. 2021 The range relies on a marine enzyme and natural prebiotic to help heal the skin’s natural moisture barrier and promote a healthier microbiome. — Ahmed Zambarakji, Robb Report, 10 Aug. 2021 Activating Trio is 10 percent Bifidus prebiotic (aka 10 percent Bifida ferment lysate) to calm inflammation and a water-soluble derivative of vitamin C to fade hyperpigmentation marks and brighten your overall complexion. — Sarah Han, Allure, 6 Aug. 2021 Beta-glucan also helps maintain proper digestive function, prevents inflammation in the gut, and acts as a prebiotic. — Cynthia Sass, Rd, Health.com, 20 Apr. 2021 The company was also the first to introduce FOS (Fructooligosaccharides) a prebiotic to help support digestion and the first to discover an optimal ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to help promote the skin and coat of dogs. — Brian Lynn, Field & Stream, 21 Sep. 2020 Beyond the gastrointestinal benefits, prebiotics may also help boost the immune system. — Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 5 Apr. 2020 At this point, there is evidence that three prebiotics can provide health benefits: inulin, also referred to as long-chain inulin; fructooligosaccharide (FOS), a short-chain inulin that’s also called oligofructose, and galactooligosaccharide (GOS). — Christy Brissette, Washington Post, 12 June 2019 While compelling evidence on the benefits of additives like prebiotics and probiotics is lacking, one exception is milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), a protein present in breastmilk that contains several important biologically active factors. — Susan Reslewic Keatley, New York Times, 18 Apr. 2020

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

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Last Updated

9 Oct 2021

Cite this Entry

“Prebiotic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prebiotic. Accessed 24 Oct. 2021.

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prebiotic

adjective

pre·bi·ot·ic | \ -bī-ˈät-ik \

Medical Definition of prebiotic

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 : of, relating to, or being chemical or environmental precursors of the origin of life prebiotic molecules also : existing or occurring before the origin of life prebiotic conditions

2 : of, relating to, or being a prebiotic Prebiotic agents included the oligosaccharides inulin, galactose, fructose, lactulose, and combinations of these nutrients.— Josef Neu et al., The New England Journal of Medicine, 20 Jan. 2011