antibacterial

adjective

an·​ti·​bac·​te·​ri·​al ˌan-tē-bak-ˈtir-ē-əl  ˌan-ˌtī- 

: directed or effective against bacteria

antibacterial soap

an antibacterial drug

antibacterial noun

In an effort to develop new antifungals, scientists are boning up on previous research on antibacterials.

—Ellen Licking

Examples of antibacterial in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Harsh cleaners and products: Bar soaps, antibacterial soaps, and some cleansers can be alkaline, disrupting the acid mantle when used on the face. —Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 30 Oct. 2024

Fabrics also boast antibacterial and anti-odor features, which promotes more sustainable at-home laundry care. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 29 Oct. 2024

Over time, the antibacterial and antiinflammatory ingredient will help to soften and smooth the skin’s texture, and even brighten it. —Neha Tandon, Glamour, 28 Oct. 2024

Use antibacterial hand sanitizer and sanitization wipes to keep your hands clean and bacteria-free. —Kelsey Glennon, Travel + Leisure, 29 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1879, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

antibacterial

adjective

an·​ti·​bac·​te·​ri·​al

ˌant-ē-ˌbak-ˈtir-ē-əl,

ˌan-ˌtī-ˌbak-

: directed or effective against bacteria

antibacterial soap

Medical Definition

antibacterial

1 of 2 adjective

an·​ti·​bac·​te·​ri·​al ˌant-i-bak-ˈtir-ē-əl  ˌan-ˌtī- 

: directed or effective against bacteria

antibacterial

2 of 2 noun

: an antibacterial agent