Disinfectant

/ˌdɪsɪnˈfɛktənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A chemical substance used to destroy bacteria, viruses, or other harmful microorganisms on surfaces or in the air.
Household disinfectants are essential for keeping kitchen surfaces free of germs.
A substance used to cleanse and sterilize to prevent infection or disease.
The hospital uses strong disinfectants to sanitize the operating rooms after surgeries.
An agent that eliminates pathogenic microorganisms, used in various cleaning applications.
You should use a disinfectant on high-touch areas like doorknobs and light switches.
verb
To cleanse or sterilize something using a disinfectant.
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

The stuff that makes things clean and safe.
Just a spritz of disinfectant and the place feels brand new!
Liquid magic against germs.
I can't live without my disinfectant – it's my germ-fighting liquid magic!