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

Example Sentences

It is commonly used as a preservative, an antibacterial agent, and in leather tanning.

From Science Daily

She rummaged through, handing Boaz antibacterial wipes, a tiny bottle of peroxide, Band-Aids, and a few packets of ibuprofen that had an expiration date of two years prior.

From Literature

A third region contained the Pip gene, which produces an antibacterial molecule, and was linked to bacteria from the Muribaculaceae family.

From Science Daily

I pull out an antibacterial wipe and clean my desk.

From Literature

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

From Science Daily

Related Words

• hygienic
• sterile