antimicrobial

adjective

an·​ti·​mi·​cro·​bi·​al ˌan-ti-mī-ˈkrō-bē-əl How to pronounce antimicrobial (audio)
: destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and especially pathogenic microorganisms
antimicrobial noun

Examples of antimicrobial 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.
When Tuft & Needle updated the Mint in 2022, the brand added an antimicrobial cover to help tamp down on bacteria that can cause your mattress to develop a smell over time. Korin Miller, Flow Space, 9 July 2025 In between washes, your bed has antimicrobial fabric that prevents the growth of bacteria. Christopher Murray May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 20 May 2025 Deodorants usually contain antimicrobial agents that reduce the bacteria in your armpit that are responsible for odors. Sherri Gordon, Health, 20 May 2025 Chlorhexidine Mouthwash Chlorhexidine is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent (one that kills many types of microbes, including bacteria and viruses). Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 12 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for antimicrobial

Word History

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of antimicrobial was in 1883

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Cite this Entry

“Antimicrobial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antimicrobial. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

antimicrobial

1 of 2 adjective
an·​ti·​mi·​cro·​bi·​al ˌant-i-mī-ˌkrō-bē-əl How to pronounce antimicrobial (audio)
variants also antimicrobic
: destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and especially pathogenic microorganisms

antimicrobial

2 of 2 noun
variants also antimicrobic
: an antimicrobial substance
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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