bacterial

adjective

bac·​te·​ri·​al bak-ˈtir-ē-əl How to pronounce bacterial (audio)
: of, relating to, or caused by bacteria
bacterial infection
bacterially adverb

Examples of bacterial 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.
For the most part, the bacterial infections usually occur in Gulf Coast states, but in recent years, reports of Vibrio vulnificus have started to be seen further North as climate change fuels warmer oceans. Joyce Orlando, Nashville Tennessean, 21 July 2025 Probiotics can specifically support this microbiome by supplementing beneficial bacterial cultures or promoting their growth. Desireé Oostland, Vogue, 17 July 2025 Diagnosis and treatment The bacterial infection is diagnosed by testing cultures obtained from stool, wounds or blood, according to health officials. Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 16 July 2025 Floodwaters may also carry a mix of organic material, including sewage and natural waste, which can fuel bacterial growth in cuts and open wounds. Brandi D. Addison, Austin American Statesman, 16 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for bacterial

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bacterial was in 1869

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bacterial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bacterial. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

bacterial

adjective
bac·​te·​ri·​al bak-ˈtir-ē-əl How to pronounce bacterial (audio)
: of, relating to, or caused by bacteria

Medical Definition

bacterial

adjective
bac·​te·​ri·​al bak-ˈtir-ē-əl How to pronounce bacterial (audio)
: of, relating to, or caused by bacteria
a bacterial chromosome
bacterial infection
bacterial endocarditis
bacterially adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on bacterial

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