probiotic

noun

pro·​bi·​ot·​ic prō-bī-ˈä-tik How to pronounce probiotic (audio)
-bē-ˈä-
: a microorganism (such as lactobacillus) that when consumed (as in a food or a dietary supplement) maintains or restores beneficial bacteria to the digestive tract
also : a product or preparation that contains such microorganisms compare prebiotic
probiotic adjective

Examples of probiotic 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.
Certain strains of probiotics offer therapeutic potential for viral infection.1 8. Marley Hall, Verywell Health, 2 Apr. 2025 Digestion Shots Digestion shots typically contain gut-healthy ingredients rich in probiotics, fiber, and vitamins. Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Ld, Health, 26 Mar. 2025 Jujube fruit extract and chamomile soothe irritated skin while prebiotics and probiotics support your microbiome. Annie Blackman, Allure, 20 Mar. 2025 Incorporating probiotics can further enhance these benefits. Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 10 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for probiotic

Word History

Etymology

pro- entry 2 + -biotic (as in antibiotic)

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of probiotic was in 1974

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Cite this Entry

“Probiotic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/probiotic. Accessed 7 Apr. 2025.

Medical Definition

probiotic

noun
pro·​bi·​ot·​ic prō-bī-ˈät-ik, -bē- How to pronounce probiotic (audio)
: a microorganism (such as lactobacillus or bifidobacterium) that when consumed (as in a food or a dietary supplement) maintains or restores beneficial bacteria to the digestive tract
also : a product or preparation that contains such microorganisms compare prebiotic
probiotic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on probiotic

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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