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

Its 83 ingredients go beyond fruits and vegetables to include functional adaptogens like ashwagandha, reishi, and rhodiola (intended to aid stress and vitality), plus prebiotics and probiotics for gut health and vitamins to support daily energy. —Alaina Chou, Bon Appetit Magazine, 29 Aug. 2025

Some data suggests Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli probiotics may be the best probiotic strains for bloating. —Lindsey Desoto, Health, 28 Aug. 2025

Regarding probiotics, Icelandic yogurt may or may not have more than Greek yogurt, depending on the type. —Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 27 Aug. 2025

Magnesium supplements, which help support melatonin production, have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, according to reports, surpassing even fish oil and probiotics. —Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 23 Aug. 2025

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