Meaning & Definition of word "Hygiene"

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    Hygiene

    /ˈhaɪˌdʒiːn/

    noun:

    • 1. Conditions or practices conducive to maintaining health and preventing disease, particularly through cleanliness.
      • Example: Proper hygiene is essential to prevent the spread of infections.
    • 2. The science of health and its maintenance.
      • Example: The research focused on the hygiene of food preparation in restaurants.
    • 3. Personal care and cleanliness.
      • Example: Daily oral hygiene is important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
    • 4. A set of conditions or practices that ensure health, especially in sanitary contexts.
      • Example: The school implemented new hygiene measures to protect students from illness.

    Etymology

    From Greek 'hygieinē' meaning 'healthful'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    personal hygiene:

    Practices to maintain cleanliness of the body.

    public hygiene:

    Conditions and practices conducive to maintaining community health.

    oral hygiene:

    Practices to maintain the cleanliness of the mouth and teeth.

    Related Words

    sanitation:

    The establishment of conditions favorable to health.

    grooming:

    The process of cleaning and maintaining one's appearance.

    disinfection:

    The process of cleaning something to destroy bacteria.

    Slang Meanings of hygiene

    Meaning: Hygiene freak

    Example Sentence: She's such a hygiene freak, she won't touch anything without sanitizing it first.

    Meaning: Hygiene police

    Example Sentence: Don't be the hygiene police at the party; let people enjoy themselves!