probiotic

noun pro·bi·ot·ic \ prō-bī-ˈä-tik , -bē-ˈä- \

|Updated on: 18 Jun 2018

Definition of probiotic

: 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

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probiotic

adjective

Recent Examples of probiotic from the Web

Examples of physical issues and probiotics used to address them: Irritable bowel syndrome: VSL#3, which contains Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Streptococcus strains.

— lori nickel, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Chin Up: The body's second brain — the gut — and how to keep it healthy," 13 June 2018
Some researchers see potential in probiotics, but the case for them requires more investigation, and there are no established protocols for how much or what strains to consume for various purposes.

— Fortune, "Why Washing Your Hands Too Much Could Make You Sick," 12 June 2018
Prebiotics feed the bacteria already in your gut, while probiotics are live bacteria that are good for your digestive system.

— lauren delgado, OrlandoSentinel.com, "Stock your garden with gut-friendly produce," 2 May 2018
There’s no question whether probiotics and prebiotics on their own are good for you.

— anthea levi, Health.com, "Are Synbiotics the New Probiotics?," 2 May 2018
Sauerkraut per serving: $.79 Kombucha per serving: $2.08 Kombucha is a tart, fizzy drink that's loaded with probiotics, the good bacteria that keeps your digestion humming and helps your immune system fight unwelcome bugs.

— marygrace taylor, Woman's Day, "These 10 Foods Are Cheaper and Healthier Than Pricey 'Superfoods'," 24 Nov. 2014
This all-natural deodorant works by utilizing two topical strains of probiotics that used to live on our skin before the age of antibacterial soaps and washes.

— rachel marlowe, Vogue, "This All-Green Apothecary in New Zealand Is Worth a Trek Across the Globe," 29 May 2018
It’s full of probiotics and antioxidants that support the immune system.

— alexandra sifferlin, Time, "10 Foods Filled With Probiotics," 12 Apr. 2018
The fermented tea is loaded with probiotics, and has been touted to promote everything from better bowel movements to a great immune system.

— allison young, Good Housekeeping, "How To Finally Learn To Make Your Own Delicious Kombucha," 16 Jan. 2018

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

Origin and Etymology of probiotic

²pro- + -biotic (as in antibiotic)

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1974

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

Medical Dictionary

probiotic

noun pro·bi·ot·ic \ prō-bī-ˈät-ik, -bē- \

medical Definition of probiotic

: 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

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