antimicrobial

American  

[an-tee-mahy-kroh-bee-uhl, an-tahy‑] / ˌæn ti maɪˈkroʊ bi əl, ˌæn taɪ‑ /

adjective

1. destructive to or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

   an antimicrobial spray to stop the spread of athlete’s foot in the locker room; antimicrobial ointments that suppress the cold sore virus.

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noun

1. an antimicrobial product. Antimicrobials are generally regulated into two categories—those used on inanimate objects, as wipes for kitchen counters, and those used in or on living things, as antibiotics or hand sanitizers.

   Any product that kills bacteria or viruses is an antimicrobial, but that doesn’t mean any antimicrobial will kill both bacteria and viruses.

antimicrobial British  

/ ˌæntɪmaɪˈkrəʊbɪəl /

adjective

1. capable of destroying or inhibiting the growth of disease-causing microbes

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Etymology

Origin of antimicrobial

First recorded in 1900–05; anti- + microbial

Compare meaning

How does antimicrobial compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• antimicrobial vs. antibacterial

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

antimicrobial

Those molecules helped repair the gut lining, reinforce the intestinal barrier, increase the production of protective mucus and strengthen antimicrobial defenses instead of driving additional inflammation.

From Science Daily ● Sep. 17, 2026

“But they’re antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory and are cooling,” he says of some herbs.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 11, 2026

A big challenge is dental plaque, a protective structure known as a biofilm that helps bacteria adhere to teeth and makes them more resistant to removal by saliva, mouth rinses and some antimicrobial agents.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 26, 2026

"Gonorrhoea remains a major global public health threat, particularly with the continued emergence of antimicrobial resistance, and an effective vaccine remains a high priority," she said.

From BBC ● Jul. 8, 2026

There are its health benefits, such as boosting immunity, reducing inflammation and providing antimicrobial effects.

From Salon ● Apr. 19, 2026