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

This high-level, broad-spectrum protection against daylight (UV, visible light and infrared-A) is combined with natural-looking foundation coverage using 100% mineral filters. —Laia Farran Graves, Forbes.com, 14 Aug. 2025

The analysis suggested that the depletion of stockpiles of broad-spectrum antibiotics has likely contributed to the rise of multidrug resistance. —Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 13 Aug. 2025

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying water-resistant sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, and SPF 30 or higher, before sun exposure. —Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 12 Aug. 2025

People who report having a penicillin allergy are more likely to receive broad-spectrum antibiotics. —Elizabeth W. Covington, The Conversation, 31 July 2025

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