Meaning & Definition of word "Disinfectant"
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Disinfectant
/ˌdɪsɪnˈfɛktənt/
noun:
- 1. A chemical substance used to destroy bacteria, viruses, or other harmful microorganisms on surfaces or in the air.
- Example: Household disinfectants are essential for keeping kitchen surfaces free of germs.
- 2. A substance used to cleanse and sterilize to prevent infection or disease.
- Example: The hospital uses strong disinfectants to sanitize the operating rooms after surgeries.
- 3. An agent that eliminates pathogenic microorganisms, used in various cleaning applications.
- Example: You should use a disinfectant on high-touch areas like doorknobs and light switches.
verb:
- 1. To cleanse or sterilize something using a disinfectant.
- Example: We need to disinfect the school playground equipment to ensure the children's safety.
Etymology
From Latin 'disinfectare', meaning 'to free from infection'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
surface disinfectant:
A disinfectant specifically designed for cleaning surfaces.
hospital grade disinfectant:
A potent disinfectant approved for use in hospitals to meet strict health standards.
natural disinfectant:
A disinfectant derived from natural sources, often considered less harsh than chemical counterparts.
Related Words
antiseptic:
A substance that inhibits the growth of microorganisms.
germicide:
An agent that kills germs or pathogens.
sanitizer:
A substance that reduces the number of germs on a surface to a safe level.
Slang Meanings of disinfectant
Meaning: The stuff that makes things clean and safe.
Example Sentence: Just a spritz of disinfectant and the place feels brand new!
Meaning: Liquid magic against germs.
Example Sentence: I can't live without my disinfectant – it's my germ-fighting liquid magic!