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

Experts say these ingredients contain lots of immune-boosting nutrients, like vitamin C, probiotics, and antioxidants. —Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 10 Sep. 2025

Experts say some foods, like cheese and probiotics, may help, but none truly stop hangovers. —Jamie Ducharme, Health, 8 Sep. 2025

There are numerous products specifically designed for women going through perimenopause, from supplements that promise immediate relief and probiotics geared towards maintaining a healthy weight to cooling sheets, pillows, even skincare products. —Taylor Lane, Flow Space, 1 Sep. 2025

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

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