microbial

Everyday

1. (science) To do with microbes: tiny living things like bacteria, fungi and some algae that can only be seen with a microscope. tree →
2. Caused by microbes: «a microbial infection». tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons, microbes can be helpful (making yogurt, bread, compost) or harmful (causing illness). «Microbial» appears in words like «antimicrobial» soap and «microbial growth» on old food. In health, handwashing reduces microbial spread. Phrases: «microbial life», «microbial growth», «antimicrobial».

Examples

• Microbial life is found almost everywhere on Earth. tree →
• Mould on bread is a kind of microbial growth. tree →
• Yogurt is made by microbial action on milk. tree →
• Antimicrobial soap helps kill germs. tree →
• Scientists look for signs of microbial life on Mars. tree →
• Compost heaps are full of microbial activity. tree →
• Our gut has trillions of helpful microbial cells. tree →
• Cooking food properly kills most harmful microbial life. tree →

Note

Adjective from «microbe». Pronounced «my-KROH-bee-al». «Micro-» means very small. Not all microbes are bad – most are harmless or helpful. Not a maths word.