Decontaminating: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when removing dangerous substances like chemicals, radiation, or biohazards from surfaces or environments, often in medical, military, or environmental fields.

• After the chemical spill, a specialized team was called to decontaminate the area
• The lab equipment requires decontaminating to prevent any cross-contamination

General term used when making something free of dirt, dust, or mess, usually in everyday contexts such as homes, offices, and common environments.

• I spent the afternoon cleaning the house
• We need to start cleaning the office more regularly

Commonly refers to removing impurities or contaminants from substances like water, air, or food, often in contexts related to health, environment, and science.

• We installed a new system for purifying water
• The air purifying device helps to reduce allergens in the home

Specifically used for killing germs and bacteria to prevent infection, commonly used in healthcare settings or for household hygiene during flu seasons.

• The hospital staff are responsible for disinfecting surgical instruments
• During the pandemic, we started disinfecting door handles and countertops daily