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.
Studies have shown that microorganisms can become more virulent and form stronger, thicker biofilms in space. Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 May 2025 Are Bacteria Hiding in Reusable Water Bottles? After discovering biofilm in his water bottle, Carl Behnke, an associate professor at Purdue University, specializing in food safety, and colleagues conducted a study on reusable water bottles around campus. Monica Cull, Discover Magazine, 27 Mar. 2025 Pseudomonas aeruginosa clinical isolates can encode plastic-degrading enzymes that allow survival on plastic and augment biofilm formation. Ian Randall, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 May 2025 This realization prompted him to take a deep dive into biofilm microanatomy. Carrie Arnold, Quanta Magazine, 21 Apr. 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 6 Jun. 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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