biofilm

noun

bio·​film ˌbi-(ˌ)ō-ˈfilm How to pronounce biofilm (audio)
: a thin usually resistant layer of microorganisms (such as bacteria) that form on and coat various surfaces

Examples of biofilm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
What differentiates colloids from biofilms is growth, which a biofilm must balance between the horizontal and the vertical. Carrie Arnold, Quanta Magazine, 21 Apr. 2025 In either case, the robot destroys the biofilms in three ways. New Atlas, 28 Mar. 2025 Green tea also blocks E. coli from forming a biofilm, which is a slimy, protective shield that bacteria create to stick together and resist treatment.8 Green tea may also help certain antibiotics, like amoxicillin and ciprofloxacin, work better. Devineé Lingo, M.s., Health, 7 Apr. 2025 The study found that oyster blood can kill bacterial pathogens in the biofilms. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 22 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for biofilm

Word History

First Known Use

1975, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of biofilm was in 1975

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Cite this Entry

“Biofilm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/biofilm. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

Medical Definition

biofilm

noun
bio·​film ˈbī-ō-ˌfilm How to pronounce biofilm (audio)
: a thin usually resistant layer of microorganisms (as bacteria) that form on and coat various surfaces (as of catheters or water pipes)
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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