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.
This simple little disk is made from pure copper, which is naturally antimicrobial. — Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 24 June 2026 The Egyptian cotton and Tencel modal blend has an antimicrobial treatment to keep it fresh between washes. — V Brand Stories, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 Albeit pricey, this packable dry steamer produces a finer vapor that is also highly antimicrobial. — Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 15 May 2026 Like many herbs, thyme contains antioxidant compounds and has antimicrobial properties. — Merve Ceylan, Health, 30 Apr. 2026 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

Rhymes for antimicrobial

See All Rhymes for antimicrobial

Browse Nearby Words

antimetastatic
antimicrobial
antimigraine
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Antimicrobial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antimicrobial. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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
-ˈkrō-bik How to pronounce antimicrobial (audio)
: destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and especially pathogenic microorganisms

antimicrobial

2 of 2 noun
variants also antimicrobic
: an antimicrobial substance
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