bioactive

adjective

bio·​ac·​tive ˌbī-ō-ˈak-tiv How to pronounce bioactive (audio)
: having an effect on a living organism
bioactive molecules
bioactivity noun

Examples of bioactive 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.
Most antibiotics are single bioactive molecules, and some can be thwarted with single mutations. Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 26 June 2026 Mogo Farm notes that reishi has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and contains bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides, triterpenes and antioxidants that help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 26 June 2026 Orange peels are rich in bioactive compounds such as citric acids, flavonoids, polyphenols, and essential oils like limonene. Lee Wallender, The Spruce, 22 June 2026 Prickly pear peel extract contains bioactive chemicals such as betalains, which have documented antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. Jennifer Bringle, Footwear News, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for bioactive

Word History

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bioactive was in 1938

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bioactive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bioactive. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

bioactive

adjective
bio·​ac·​tive -ˈak-tiv How to pronounce bioactive (audio)
: having an effect on a living organism
bioactive molecules
bioactive pharmaceuticals and pesticides
bioactivity noun
plural bioactivities
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