antibacterial

American  

[an-tee-bak-teer-ee-uhl, an-tahy-] / ˌæn ti bækˈtɪər i əl, ˌæn taɪ- /

adjective

1. destructive to or inhibiting the growth of bacteria.

   a full line of antibacterial hand lotions, deodorants, and foot powders.

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noun

1. an antibacterial product, as a hand or dish soap, a mouthwash, an aerosol cleaner, or an antibiotic.

   Sorry, but none of these antibacterials is going to kill your cold virus.

antibacterial British  

/ ˌæntɪbækˈtɪərɪəl /

adjective

1. effective against bacteria

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Etymology

Origin of antibacterial

First recorded in 1895–1900; anti- + bacterial ( def. )

Compare meaning

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

• antimicrobial vs. antibacterial

Explanation

Something that's antibacterial works by killing bacteria or keeping it from growing. You might put antibacterial ointment on a cut to help keep it clean and free from infection. Officially, an antibiotic like penicillin is an antibacterial agent — it kills bacteria, microorganisms that cause disease. You're more likely to find the word antibacterial describing special soaps and lotions that don't just wash bacteria off your hands, but actually kill them. The word combines anti-, "against," and bacterial, from the Greek root bakterion, "small staff," which describes the shape of the first bacteria seen through microscopes.

Example Sentences

A graphene antibacterial toothbrush developed through patents from the faculty-led startup 'Materials Creation Co.,

From Science Daily • Apr. 26, 2026

Garlic has long been recognized as one of the most potent naturally occurring antibacterial and antifungal crops.

From Science Daily • Dec. 8, 2025

The scientists took samples of those plants, tested them and discovered most had antibacterial properties.

From BBC • May 14, 2025

Studies support these claims, showing that probiotics like Lactobacillus can help with acne by producing antibacterial compounds that inhibit C. acnes and by reducing inflammation.

From Slate • Feb. 22, 2025

He gives one to Christina, Peter, and me, along with an individually packaged antibacterial wipe, something I suspect only Amar will bother with.

From "Allegiant" by Veronica Roth

Related Words

• hygienic
• sterile