probiotic

noun

pro·​bi·​ot·​ic prō-bī-ˈä-tik How to pronounce probiotic (audio)
-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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Experts also suggest adding supplements like prebiotics, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids to enhance skin health.567 4. Rachael Zimlich, Verywell Health, 17 July 2025 These findings show that probiotics, when used in a targeted manner, also influence emotional balance. Desireé Oostland, Vogue, 17 July 2025 The meeting further presented the extraordinary evidence that effective treatments for these issues are already available, such as anti-histamines, probiotics, mast cell stabilisers – simple, cheap, low risk medications which have made the difference between someone working and not working. Nancy Doyle, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025 Perhaps someday doctors will be able to tip the balance toward the bacteria’s benefits — with probiotics, perhaps, or even with gene editing. F.d. Flam, Twin Cities, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for probiotic

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of probiotic was in 1974

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Cite this Entry

“Probiotic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/probiotic. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

probiotic

noun
pro·​bi·​ot·​ic prō-bī-ˈät-ik, -bē- How to pronounce probiotic (audio)
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on probiotic

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