bioactive

adjective

bio·​ac·​tive ˌbī-ō-ˈak-tiv How to pronounce bioactive (audio)
: having an effect on a living organism
bioactive molecules
bioactivity noun

Examples of bioactive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Derived from the seeds of the castor bean plant, castor oil contains omega fatty acids and bioactive compounds that may be beneficial for your hair.1 Although research is limited, some evidence suggests that castor oil may help moisturize and protect hair, manage dandruff, and promote growth. Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 4 June 2025 Why Drinking Coffee Might Help You Age Better Coffee contains more than 100 unique bioactive compounds, many of which are antioxidants such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, and carotenoids. Stephanie Anderson Witmer, Health, 4 June 2025 The team is now planning to explore how coffee’s bioactive compounds — particularly polyphenols and antioxidants — might influence molecular aging pathways, including inflammation, metabolism and vascular health, Mahdavi said. Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 2 June 2025 Coffee also contains bioactive compounds that can can influence the pathways for aging and the researchers plan to explore how these compounds in coffee interact with genetic and metabolic markers of aging, especially in women. Soo Kim, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for bioactive

Word History

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bioactive was in 1938

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Cite this Entry

“Bioactive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bioactive. Accessed 9 Jun. 2025.

Medical Definition

bioactive

adjective
bio·​ac·​tive -ˈak-tiv How to pronounce bioactive (audio)
: having an effect on a living organism
bioactive molecules
bioactive pharmaceuticals and pesticides
bioactivity noun
plural bioactivities
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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