prebiotic

American  

[pree-bahy-ot-ik] / ˌpri baɪˈɒt ɪk /

adjective

1. Also existing or occurring before life, or serving as a precursor to it.

   These molecules played a critical role in the prebiotic evolution of life.

   Even if habitable conditions existed only briefly, relics of prebiotic chemistry or rudimentary life still might remain.

2. being, having, or relating to a substance containing dietary fiber that stimulates the growth or activity of beneficial bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract.

   Oats contain the prebiotic fiber beta-glucan.

   Prebiotic food sources include bananas, leeks, onions, chicory, asparagus, and artichoke.

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noun

1. a substance containing dietary fiber that stimulates the growth or activity of beneficial bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract.

   Our group has begun to develop strategies for incorporating prebiotics into convenience foods.

prebiotic British  

/ ˌpriːbaɪˈɒtɪk /

adjective

1. occurring or existing before the emergence of life

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Etymology

Origin of prebiotic

First recorded in 1950–55 prebiotic for def. 1, 1990–95 prebiotic for def. 2; pre- ( def. ) + biotic ( def. )

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

prebiotic

Together, these discoveries show that carbon-rich asteroids throughout the Solar System contain diverse prebiotic chemistry.

From Science Daily ● Nov. 3, 2026

Fractions produced through water extraction and with pectate lyase showed the strongest prebiotic potential.

From Science Daily ● Sep. 30, 2026

In a world where influencers warn of spiked cortisol levels and disrupted circadian rhythms, plenty of consumers are turning to prebiotic sodas, sugar-free beverages, and refreshers as substitutes.

From Slate ● Aug. 14, 2026

Rajan takes vitamin D, a prebiotic, protein, fibre and creatine - in what he describes as a "supplement stack" - to target areas where he could have a deficiency.

From BBC ● Jun. 20, 2026

Originally, in the time of prebiotic elaboration of peptides and nucleotides from inorganic ingredients in the water on the earth, there was nothing to shield out ultraviolet radiation except the water itself.

From "The Lives of a Cell" by Lewis Thomas

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