antimicrobial

[ an-tee-mahy-kroh-bee-uhl, an-tahy‑ ]

adjective

1. destructive to or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi:

   an antimicrobial spray to stop the spread of athlete’s foot in the locker room; antimicrobial ointments that suppress the cold sore virus.

noun

1. an antimicrobial product. Antimicrobials are generally regulated into two categories—those used on inanimate objects, as wipes for kitchen counters, and those used in or on living things, as antibiotics or hand sanitizers:

   Any product that kills bacteria or viruses is an antimicrobial, but that doesn’t mean any antimicrobial will kill both bacteria and viruses.

antimicrobial

/ ˌæntɪmaɪˈkrəʊbɪəl /

adjective

1. capable of destroying or inhibiting the growth of disease-causing microbes

Word History and Origins

Origin of antimicrobial¹

First recorded in 1900–05; anti- + microbial

Example Sentences

At the same time, antimicrobial resistance is rising, making infections more deadly.

From MIT Technology Review

The antimicrobial-treated sleep surface helps resist odor, mold, mildew, and fungus.

From Popular-Science

Nixed change fees may be a permanent change, along with the new antimicrobial TSA bins Delta airline introduced in five hubs earlier this month.

From Fortune

Weighing less than half what the average pair of jeans do, these slim-cut pants are made from an antimicrobial, moisture-wicking, temperature-­controlling fabric.

From Outside Online

The Widepac has a three-liter capacity, and is made from a three-layer polyethylene material treated with an antimicrobial agent and Source’s “GrungeGuard” technology to prevent the growth of bacteria.

From Popular-Science

“Oil is antimicrobial and gets into the tissues of the mouth to inhibit bacterial growth,” says Caldecott.

From The Daily Beast

But then came quinine, perhaps the first effective antimicrobial of them all.

From The Daily Beast