antimicrobial
/ˌæntimaɪˈkroʊbiəl/
adjective
- Capable of destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
- The hospital uses antimicrobial wipes to clean surfaces.
- Some essential oils have natural antimicrobial properties.
- Many hand soaps contain antimicrobial agents to kill germs.
Synonyms
noun
- A substance that kills or stops the growth of microorganisms.
- The doctor applied an antimicrobial to the wound to prevent infection.
- Antimicrobials are commonly used in agriculture to protect crops.
- Overuse of antimicrobials can lead to resistant bacteria.