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

Dr. S. said, noting that medical staff lack proper antibiotics, which has contributed to the spread of antimicrobial resistance in Gaza and beyond, which can make some drugs fail to cure infections.

From Salon

The latest findings echo those found previously by the World Health Organization, which attributes superbug development to the overuse of antimicrobials to fight viruses, bacteria and fungi.

From Salon

The report is the most comprehensive assessment yet of the risk of antimicrobial resistance, or AMR, which the World Health Organization has long identified as one of the top 10 threats to global public health.

From Los Angeles Times

Laboratory studies revealed the plants were high in antioxidants and antimicrobials.

From BBC

Critics say intensive no-graze systems can lead to poor health conditions, with disease spreading in crowded sheds and the routine overuse of antibiotics, leading to the potential growth of antimicrobial resistance.

From BBC