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

Supporting a dog's digestive health with fiber, probiotics, and other supplements can help prevent recurring problems. —Kasey Caminiti, USA Today, 5 Feb. 2026

Yogurt Yogurt provides probiotics, beneficial bacteria that help support gut health. —Lindsey Desoto, Health, 3 Feb. 2026

Research keeps coming out on the importance of probiotics and maintaining good gut health. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 28 Jan. 2026

Few have much evidence behind them, but two that Jooste and his colleagues highlight are vitamin D and probiotics. —Outside, 28 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