Disinfectant: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms on non-living objects or surfaces. Typically used in settings such as hospitals, kitchens, or bathrooms.

• We need a strong disinfectant to clean the bathroom floor.
• She sprayed the table with disinfectant before setting the dishes.

A substance that reduces the number of microorganisms on skin or surfaces to a safe level, often used for hands or food-contact surfaces. Commonly used in everyday health and hygiene practices.

• Hand sanitizer is essential when you can't wash your hands with soap and water.
• She sanitized the kitchen counter before cooking dinner.

Used to prevent the growth of disease-causing microorganisms on living tissues, such as skin. Often applied to cuts, wounds, or during surgeries.

• Before stitching the wound, the doctor applied an antiseptic to the skin.
• It's important to clean the cut with an antiseptic to prevent infection.

A substance or agent that kills germs, including bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. Can be used on both living tissues and non-living surfaces. Has a strong and broad implication, often used in scientific or medical contexts.

• The laboratory uses a potent germicide to ensure a sterile environment.
• This solution acts as a germicide and can eliminate various pathogens.

Used to describe a substance that kills or prevents the growth of microorganisms on surfaces and objects, typically utilized in hospitals, kitchens, and bathrooms to ensure a high level of hygiene. Not necessarily specific to bacteria alone.

• She used a disinfectant to clean the countertops.
• The hospital staff sprayed disinfectant in the patient's room.

An agent or device used to eliminate all forms of microbial life, including bacteria, viruses, spores, and fungi. Extremely important in medical and scientific settings to ensure absolute sterility.

• The surgical instruments were placed in the sterilizer before the operation.
• They use a steam sterilizer to clean baby bottles.

Refers to a chemical agent that specifically targets and kills bacteria. Commonly employed in medical and laboratory settings where controlling bacteria is crucial.

• The scientist added a bactericide to the culture to prevent contamination.
• Farmers often use a bactericide to protect crops from bacterial infections.

General term for a cleaning product that may or may not have antibacterial properties. Used for everyday cleaning tasks to remove dirt, grease, and grime from surfaces.

• She bought a new cleanser for the kitchen sink.
• A gentle cleanser is recommended for daily use on your face.

This entry is a duplicate of the first 'disinfectant'. Please refer to the first 'disinfectant' for context and examples.

This term is best used when referring to substances that specifically kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. It is commonly found on products like soaps, hand sanitizers, and some medications. It is often mentioned in contexts of personal hygiene or medical products.

• The doctor recommended using an antibacterial soap to prevent infection.
• She carries an antibacterial hand gel in her purse.

This phrase is usually used in more formal or technical contexts, often within the medical, scientific, or industrial fields. It refers to any substance used for disinfecting purposes. It can encompass a wide range of chemicals, not specific to bacteria.

• The lab requires a specific disinfection agent for cleaning their instruments.
• Please ensure that the disinfection agent meets the safety standards.

This term is used in scientific and medical contexts to describe substances that destroy or inhibit the growth of microorganisms. It is a broad term encompassing bacteria, viruses, fungi, and more. It may also have a more negative or potent connotation compared to 'disinfectant' or 'antibacterial'.

• Researchers are testing a new microbicide that could prevent the spread of infections.
• Using a strong microbicide can help to control bacterial contamination.