antibiotic

/ˌæn.taɪ.baɪˈɒt.ɪk/noun

A substance that kills bacteria or stops similar microorganisms from growing.

Example sentence

“The doctor prescribed an antibiotic for the infection.”

Works only against bacteria. Doctors stress that antibiotics do nothing for colds and flu, which are caused by viruses.

Related words

painkillerA medicine taken to reduce or stop pain.ointmentA thick, oily cream, usually containing medicine, that you rub on the skin to treat or soothe it.dosageThe giving of medicine in a specific, measured quantity.plasterA soft, sticky preparation spread on the skin to help it heal or improve its appearance.tabletA small solid piece of medicine or another substance that is easy to swallow; a pill.stitchOne movement of a threaded needle through fabric in sewing, or the loop of thread it leaves behind.