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

Fermented cabbage contains prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics that play an important role in gut health. —Leeann Weintraub, Daily News, 15 Apr. 2026

Kefir's probiotics appear to play a central role in its effects on high blood pressure. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 14 Apr. 2026

Functional drinks can support gut health with probiotics and prebiotic fibers. —Lindsey Desoto, Health, 14 Apr. 2026

King is also committed to taking a daily probiotic. —Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 10 Apr. 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