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.
More than just thirst quenchers, functional beverages are engineered to deliver a wellness punch with vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, electrolytes, probiotics and enzymes for gut health and adaptogens for mood support. — Pamela N. Danziger, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026 Because probiotics add beneficial bacteria to the gut, taking probiotic supplements while on antibiotics has become a popular strategy for offsetting bacterial loss and keeping the gut microbiome balanced. — Kaitlin Vogel, HEALTH, 26 Aug. 2026 Some of these varieties are also traditionally fermented, a process that can provide probiotics, notes Messer. — Daryl Austin, USA Today, 24 Aug. 2026 Whether the probiotic will be effective enough to compete with existing therapies will require further testing. — Mike McRae 19, New Atlas, 20 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for probiotic

See All Rhymes for probiotic

Browse Nearby Words

probertite
probiotic
probit
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Probiotic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/probiotic. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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