What term describes substances designed to prevent bacteria from growing or spreading?

The term that accurately describes substances designed to prevent bacteria from growing or spreading is "antibacterial." Antibacterial agents work specifically by either inhibiting the growth of bacteria or killing bacteria, effectively controlling infections and preventing their spread. This specificity is crucial, as it distinguishes these agents from those that target viruses or fungi.

In contrast, antiviral substances are formulated to combat viruses and would not be effective against bacterial infections. Antifungal agents are effective against fungal infections, and antiseptics are used to reduce the microbial load on the skin or in wounds, which can include bacteria, viruses, and fungi, but do not exclusively target bacteria. Therefore, "antibacterial" is the most precise term for substances aimed specifically at controlling bacterial growth.