ANTIBACTERIAL Synonyms: 84 Similar and Opposite Words

antibacterial

adjective

Definition of antibacterial

as in antibiotic

able to kill bacteria Please use an antibacterial soap to wash your hands.

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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.

Recent Examples of antibacterial Manuka honey is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. — Jenna Belhumeur, Los Angeles Times, 27 July 2026 If needed, use antibacterial wipes for surfaces, pockets, and seams. — Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 27 July 2026 Organosulfurs have potent antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that some believe can promote hair growth by improving scalp health. — Md Published, Verywell Health, 25 July 2026 Robinovitz assured me that Sloomoo Institute slime is changed out weekly and is made onsite with an antibacterial ingredient. — Claire Harutunian, Charlotte Observer, 13 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for antibacterial

Recent Examples of Synonyms for antibacterial

Adjective

Pack a tube of petroleum jelly (Vaseline) in your first aid kit instead of antibiotic ointment and remember to flush all scrapes and cuts with copious amounts of clean water before covering them with the jelly.

— Dr. Jill Grimes, CNN Money, 29 Aug. 2026
In August of that same year, he was hospitalized for an infection that required intravenous antibiotic treatment.

— Stefania Conrieri, Vanity Fair, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of antibiotic

Adjective

As the war raged on, this makeshift countermeasure was replaced by more sanitary and effective innovations, including gauze pads soaked in hyposulfite solution, flannel hoods, tube helmets, and box respirators.

— Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 19 Aug. 2026
Here’s what our pros recommend for dusting your bedroom to keep it sanitary and easy to breathe in.

— Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 18 Aug. 2026

Definition of sanitary

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antianxiety

antibacterial

antibiotic

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“Antibacterial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/antibacterial. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of antibacterial

adjective

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