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

They are used prophylactically, with health care workers aware that their patients are vulnerable to infection due to poor conditions, and may be unable to finish a full course of antibiotics or receive follow-up care.

From Salon • Mar. 9, 2024

Indeed, there have been concerns that the mutation, once it emerged -- for example, in a large population treated prophylactically with atovaquone -- could spread via human-to-mosquito-to-human transmission.

From Science Daily • Oct. 20, 2023

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