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.
One reason for this is that peppermint oil has known antimicrobial properties and can destroy harmful microorganisms. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 13 Aug. 2026 This powerful cleaning solution has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. — Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Aug. 2026 Once the amoeba was identified, doctors began a large regimen of antimicrobial and antiparasitic drugs. — Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 12 Aug. 2026 This laptop also has a antimicrobial guard, which blocks bacteria growth by 99% over 24 hours. — George Yang, PC Magazine, 11 Aug. 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 19 Aug. 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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