prophylactically

American  

[proh-fuh-lak-tik-lee, prof-uh-] / ˌproʊ fəˈlæk tɪk li, ˌprɒf ə- /

adverb

1. preventively or protectively, as against a disease or infection.

   You don't need to be given antibiotics prophylactically unless your symptoms meet certain criteria.

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Etymology

Origin of prophylactically

prophylactic ( def. ) + -ally ( def. )

Example Sentences

Both antivirals can also be prescribed if you’ve been exposed to the flu and want to take it prophylactically.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 12, 2026

Authorized by the FDA for emergency use, it’s given prophylactically and can help recipients prevent COVID-19 if they are later exposed to an infected person.

From Los Angeles Times • May 10, 2024

"In fact, there are no reported cases of atovaquone resistance when the drug has been given prophylactically," she says.

From Science Daily • Oct. 20, 2023

This is only one of the many things journalists should be doing prophylactically, to be proactive rather than reactive when things go wrong, which they almost inevitably will.

From Salon • Oct. 30, 2020

Even in the rice puddings Tessie made, covering each little bowl with wax paper before putting it away in the fridge— even into these prophylactically secure desserts my hair found its way!

From "Middlesex: A Novel" by Jeffrey Eugenides