probiotic

noun

pro·​bi·​ot·​ic prō-bī-ˈä-tik How to pronounce probiotic (audio)
-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
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.
Reports promise a clear verdict on whether your gut is balanced, then hand you a roadmap of foods to eat, foods to skip and probiotics to buy. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 24 June 2026 Some greens may contain extras, such as probiotics and adaptogenic mushrooms, which may not appeal to all. — Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 June 2026 For example, some strains of probiotics can lower the risk of diarrhea from antibiotics and severe complications for preterm infants. — Will Stone, NPR, 22 June 2026 Per Bloom’s website, the bite-sized gummies pack green superfoods, vitamins, minerals, probiotics and fiber aimed at relieving bloating and supporting gut health. — Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for probiotic

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of probiotic was in 1974

Rhymes for probiotic

See All Rhymes for probiotic

Browse Nearby Words

probertite
probiotic
probit
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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Medical Definition

probiotic

noun
pro·​bi·​ot·​ic prō-bī-ˈät-ik, -bē- How to pronounce probiotic (audio)
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on probiotic

Nglish: Translation of probiotic for Spanish Speakers

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