Antimicrobial nanoparticles are tiny particles, typically in the range of 1 to 100 nanometers, that possess antimicrobial properties. These nanoparticles can kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The small size of nanoparticles allows them to interact more effectively with microbial cells, often leading to enhanced antimicrobial activity compared to larger particles.