# antimicrobial

/ˌæntɪmaɪkɹˈəʊbɪəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/antimicrobial
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

describing something that can kill or stop the growth of tiny living things like bacteria, viruses, or fungi. You often see this word on soaps or cleaning products.

For teachers: capable of destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. Often used attributively to describe substances, agents, or coatings.

## Examples

- This soap has antimicrobial properties to help keep you healthy.
- Hospitals use antimicrobial coatings on door handles to reduce the spread of infections between patients and staff.
- The rapid evolution of resistant strains has forced researchers to develop novel antimicrobial compounds that target the cellular machinery of pathogens in ways that traditional antibiotics cannot.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the noun it modifies; often used in medical, scientific, or industrial contexts.

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