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

Hubbard says the probiotic is particularly important in her daily routine because of its focus on fostering a positive gut-skin connection. — Mckinley Franklin, HollywoodReporter, 18 July 2026

Greek yogurt also offers calcium, and varieties with live active cultures contain probiotics that support gut health. — Lynn Andriani, Martha Stewart, 18 July 2026

The effectiveness of probiotics depends on the specific strain, dose, and individual, and evidence for preventing travelers’ diarrhea remains inconclusive. — T'keyah Bazin, Verywell Health, 17 July 2026

Some frozen yogurts provide probiotics, though the amount varies and not all products contain meaningful levels of live cultures. — Jillian Kubala, Health, 7 July 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