probiotic

noun

pro·​bi·​ot·​ic prō-bī-ˈä-tik 

-bē-ˈä-

: a microorganism (such as lactobacillus) that when consumed (as in a food or a dietary supplement) maintains or restores beneficial bacteria to the digestive tract

also : a product or preparation that contains such microorganisms compare prebiotic

probiotic adjective

Examples of probiotic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This winning combo provides probiotics that support a healthy gut-brain connection, fiber and brain-boosting antioxidants from the berries, and healthy fats from the nut butter, Cording explains. —Ashley Oerman, SELF, 19 Feb. 2026

Thirty minutes before a meal With a meal Yogurt contains probiotics, helpful bacteria that can improve gut health. —Sohaib Imtiaz, Verywell Health, 17 Feb. 2026

Each drink has 2 billion probiotics and vitamin B12 for energy. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026

The findings suggest that combining probiotics and prebiotics may provide broader support than relying on a single supplement. —Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 15 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

pro- entry 2 + -biotic (as in antibiotic)

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for probiotic

• abiotic
• aeronautic
• apoptotic
• asymptotic
• cyanotic
• eukaryotic
• idiotic
• meiotic
• patriotic
• prebiotic
• prokaryotic
• semiotic

Medical Definition

probiotic

noun

pro·​bi·​ot·​ic prō-bī-ˈät-ik, -bē- 

: a microorganism (such as lactobacillus or bifidobacterium) that when consumed (as in a food or a dietary supplement) maintains or restores beneficial bacteria to the digestive tract

also : a product or preparation that contains such microorganisms compare prebiotic

probiotic adjective