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

Without that designation, the product may not contain meaningful probiotics. —Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 23 May 2026

Susie also points to emerging research on the gut-brain axis, which suggests that probiotics from fermented foods may influence mood and anxiety through the production of neurotransmitters and anti-inflammatory compounds. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 23 May 2026

Yogurt is a good source of probiotics, the beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome. —Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 23 May 2026

Many varieties contain less sugar and fewer artificial ingredients, while also offering probiotics or prebiotic fiber. —Lynn Andriani, Martha Stewart, 21 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for probiotic

• aprotic
• aquatic
• biotic
• chaotic
• cirrhotic
• demotic
• despotic
• dichotic
• erotic
• euphotic
• exotic
• fibrotic

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