ENGLISH
REFERENCE

microbial

adj.
C1 Advanced US //maɪˈkɹoʊbiəɫ// UK //maɪkɹˈəʊbɪəl// mi·cro·bial

adj. relating to or caused by microbes, which are tiny living things like bacteria that you can only see with a microscope.

adj. relating to or caused by microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Often used in scientific or medical contexts to describe life forms or processes at a microscopic scale.


SIMPLE

The scientist studied the microbial life in the pond water.

CONTEXTUAL

Doctors are concerned about microbial resistance to common antibiotics, which makes some infections much harder to treat.

COMPLEX

The unique microbial ecosystem found within the deep-sea hydrothermal vents thrives on chemical energy rather than sunlight, challenging our traditional understanding of how life can survive in extreme environments.

Synonyms
Origin

From microbe + -ial.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun. Frequently pairs with 'life', 'growth', or 'activity'.

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