probiotic

noun

pro·​bi·​ot·​ic prō-bī-ˈä-tik 

-bē-ˈä-

: a microorganism (such as lactobacillus) that when consumed (as in a food or a dietary supplement) maintains or restores beneficial bacteria to the digestive tract

also : a product or preparation that contains such microorganisms compare prebiotic

probiotic adjective

Examples of probiotic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Treatments include dietary recommendations such as eating more fiber and probiotics or reducing the consumption of fatty foods and caffeine. —Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 7 Dec. 2024

And if researchers were to identify the specific strains of bacteria involved in oral or gut inflammation, people with IBD might be able to take specific probiotics to help restore balance to their oral or gut microbiomes, Campbell says. —Sarah Klein, TIME, 2 Dec. 2024

It is formulated with probiotics and superfoods that gently remove dirt and makeup from the day while leaving the skin glowy. —Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 29 Nov. 2024

These include fiber, probiotics, omega fats, antioxidants, and healthy protein. —Hannah Coates, Vogue, 28 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

pro- entry 2 + -biotic (as in antibiotic)

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

probiotic

noun

pro·​bi·​ot·​ic prō-bī-ˈät-ik, -bē- 

: a microorganism (such as lactobacillus or bifidobacterium) that when consumed (as in a food or a dietary supplement) maintains or restores beneficial bacteria to the digestive tract

also : a product or preparation that contains such microorganisms compare prebiotic

probiotic adjective