biofilm

noun

bio·​film ˌbi-(ˌ)ō-ˈfilm How to pronounce biofilm (audio)
: a thin usually resistant layer of microorganisms (such as bacteria) that form on and coat various surfaces

Examples of biofilm 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.
So for example, bacteria tend to form what are known as biofilms, basically sheets of many bacteria lined up next to each other. Steven Strogatz, Quanta Magazine, 5 Dec. 2024 Disrupting the biofilm can prevent pimple or blackhead formation.3 4. Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 2 Oct. 2024 Researchers from the university studied samples of biofilms – the glue-like communities of microorganisms attached to a surface – from 34 toothbrushes and 92 showerheads to reach their conclusions, which were published Wednesday in the journal Frontiers in Microbiomes. Issy Ronald, CNN, 9 Oct. 2024 The microbes form biofilms, an extra layer of cells, around themselves for protection. George Petras, USA TODAY, 21 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for biofilm 

Word History

First Known Use

1975, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of biofilm was in 1975

Dictionary Entries Near biofilm

Cite this Entry

“Biofilm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/biofilm. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

biofilm

noun
bio·​film ˈbī-ō-ˌfilm How to pronounce biofilm (audio)
: a thin usually resistant layer of microorganisms (as bacteria) that form on and coat various surfaces (as of catheters or water pipes)
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