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Disinfectant: meaning, definitions and examples

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disinfectant

 

[ ˌdɪsɪnˈfɛktənt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

cleaning solution

A disinfectant is a chemical substance that is used to kill harmful bacteria and viruses on surfaces.

Synonyms

antiseptic, germicide, sanitizer

Examples of usage

  • Make sure to use a disinfectant to clean the kitchen countertops.
  • The hospital uses powerful disinfectants to prevent the spread of infections.
Context #2 | Noun

medical setting

In a medical setting, a disinfectant is crucial for sterilizing equipment and maintaining a hygienic environment.

Synonyms

bactericide, cleanser, sterilizer

Examples of usage

  • The nurse sprayed the disinfectant on the medical instruments before the surgery.
  • Proper use of disinfectants helps prevent healthcare-associated infections.
Context #3 | Noun

pandemic

During a pandemic, the demand for disinfectants increases as people strive to keep their surroundings clean and safe.

Synonyms

antibacterial, disinfection agent, microbicide

Examples of usage

  • Supermarkets experienced a surge in sales of disinfectants during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • It's important to use an effective disinfectant to protect against the spread of the virus.

Translations

Translations of the word "disinfectant" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desinfetante

🇮🇳 कीटाणुनाशक

🇩🇪 Desinfektionsmittel

🇮🇩 desinfektan

🇺🇦 дезінфектант

🇵🇱 środek dezynfekujący

🇯🇵 消毒剤

🇫🇷 désinfectant

🇪🇸 desinfectante

🇹🇷 dezinfektan

🇰🇷 소독제

🇸🇦 مطهر

🇨🇿 dezinfekční prostředek

🇸🇰 dezinfekčný prostriedok

🇨🇳 消毒剂

🇸🇮 razkužilo

🇮🇸 sótthreinsiefni

🇰🇿 дезинфекциялық құрал

🇬🇪 დეზინფექციური საშუალება

🇦🇿 dezinfeksiya vasitəsi

🇲🇽 desinfectante

Word origin

The term 'disinfectant' originated from the Latin word 'disinfectare', which means 'to cleanse thoroughly'. Disinfectants have been used for centuries to prevent the spread of diseases and maintain cleanliness. In modern times, with the increased awareness of hygiene and sanitation, disinfectants play a vital role in healthcare, households, and public spaces. The development of various types of disinfectants has contributed to better control of infectious agents and improved public health.

See also: disinfect, disinfection, disinfector, infect, infected, infection, infections, infectious.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,728, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.