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

It’s touted as a three-in-one supplement, because in addition to its two strains of probiotics (Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. —Kristine Thomason, Vogue, 22 Jan. 2026

Your pediatrician may recommend various products suitable for babies at particular ages, including baby probiotics, relief drops or even some homeopathic medicine. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 22 Jan. 2026

The technology’s blend of active probiotics produces a range of enzymes that break down various allergens. —Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 15 Jan. 2026

This means that the product contains significant levels of live and active probiotics. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 15 Jan. 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