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.
Current solutions include using chloramine as a disinfectant, periodic backwashing to prevent biofilms from forming on the membrane, and air scouring. Tejasri Gururaj, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2025 Scientists from São Paulo State University's Araraquara School of Dentistry in Brazil tested morin — a naturally occurring compound extracted from the peels and leaves of certain fruits and vegetables — on bacterial biofilms that mimicked gum disease. Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 22 Oct. 2025 In the thermal spring Roadside West (left) in Yellowstone National Park, researchers isolated an unusual microbe from the gray-colored biofilm (right). Jake Buehler, Wired News, 31 Aug. 2025 Scientists submerged individual bags of different microplastics and natural surfaces into the water and performed various tests on the resulting biofilms—running analyses on biofilm formation, metabolic activity, antibiotic resistance genes and resistance against three antibiotics. Marta Zaraska, Scientific American, 26 Aug. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Biofilm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/biofilm. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

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)
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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