broad-spectrum

adjective

broad-spec·​trum ˈbrȯd-ˈspek-trəm 

1

: effective against a wide range of organisms (such as insects or bacteria)

a broad-spectrum antibiotic

2

: effective in protecting skin from ultraviolet radiation by absorbing or blocking both UVA and UVB rays

broad-spectrum sunscreens

Examples of broad-spectrum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Sunburn, long treated as its own category, is being folded back into the barrier conversation, reinforcing daily broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher as non-negotiable. — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 17 Sep. 2026

The light and airy sunscreen is formulated with La Roche-Posay’s signature Cell-Ox Shield, pairing broad-spectrum UVA/UVB filters with an antioxidant complex to shield skin from both sunburn and the free-radical damage that drives premature aging. — Alison Abbey Hudak, Footwear News, 1 Sep. 2026

NanoViricides, a nano-biopharmaceutical company, received approval from the Food and Drug Administration in May to continue development of a broad-spectrum antiviral candidate for measles treatment. — Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 25 Aug. 2026

In addition to creating a smooth base for makeup, the formula delivers broad-spectrum sun protection—a welcome bonus for mature skin, since UV exposure is one of the primary drivers of visible signs of aging. — Jenny Berg, InStyle, 19 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for broad-spectrum

• electrum
• spectrum

Medical Definition

broad-spectrum

adjective

1

: effective against a wide range of organisms (as insects or bacteria)

broad-spectrum antibiotics

compare narrow-spectrum

2

: effective in protecting skin from ultraviolet radiation by absorbing or blocking both UVA and UVB rays

broad-spectrum suncreen