antimicrobial

adjective

an·​ti·​mi·​cro·​bi·​al ˌan-ti-mī-ˈkrō-bē-əl 

: destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and especially pathogenic microorganisms

antimicrobial noun

Examples of antimicrobial in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Following up with an antimicrobial mouthwash can help further kill bacteria and reduce plaque buildup. —Angelica Stabile, Fox News, 3 Dec. 2024

These boots have a 5 millimeter heel drop; an internal rock plate to protect against rogue stones and roots; and a removable, antimicrobial footbed. —Kristin Canning, SELF, 3 Dec. 2024

Garlic has antimicrobial properties that kill bacteria and viruses, primarily due to the compounds allicin and ajoene. —Nancy Lebrun, Verywell Health, 2 Dec. 2024

This oil cleanser's key ingredient, heartleaf, boasts antimicrobial properties that fight acne-causing bacteria and fungus and help regulate oil production. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 2 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

antimicrobial

1 of 2 adjective

an·​ti·​mi·​cro·​bi·​al ˌant-i-mī-ˌkrō-bē-əl 

variants also antimicrobic

-ˈkrō-bik 

: destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and especially pathogenic microorganisms

antimicrobial

2 of 2 noun

variants also antimicrobic

: an antimicrobial substance