Hygienic: meaning, definitions and examples

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hygienic

 

[ ˌhʌɪˈdʒɛnɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

cleanliness

Characterized by or promoting good health and cleanliness.

Synonyms

clean, healthful, sanitary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hygienic

Typically used to describe practices, environments, or products that prevent illness or the spread of disease by maintaining cleanliness.

  • The surgical instruments were kept in a hygienic condition.
  • It's important to maintain a hygienic kitchen to avoid foodborne illnesses.
clean

Commonly employed to describe something free from dirt, dust, or stains. It can refer to both physical cleanliness and moral purity.

  • After the big party, it took hours to get the house clean.
  • He has a clean record with no criminal history.
sanitary

Often used to describe conditions that are clean and free from bacteria, usually in medical, food preparation, or public health settings. It has a clinical or technical connotation.

  • The public restrooms are kept in a sanitary condition.
  • Sanitary regulations must be followed in all food processing plants.
healthful

Generally used to describe something that promotes good health, like food, lifestyle choices, or environments.

  • Eating fresh fruits and vegetables is part of a healthful diet.
  • Regular exercise contributes to a healthful lifestyle.

Examples of usage

  • It is important to maintain hygienic conditions in hospitals.
  • She always follows hygienic practices in the kitchen.
Context #2 | Adjective

personal habits

Concerned with or promoting hygiene.

Synonyms

clean, healthful, sanitary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hygienic

Hygienic is often used to describe things that are very clean and promote good health, especially in medical or food preparation settings.

  • It's important to maintain a hygienic kitchen to prevent foodborne illnesses
  • Hospitals must be extremely hygienic to avoid infections
clean

Clean is a general term used to describe something free from dirt, marks, or stains. It applies to almost anything, from rooms to clothes.

  • After cooking, we need to clean the dishes
  • The children must clean their rooms before going out to play
sanitary

Sanitary is often used to describe conditions that are clean and free from bacteria or disease, especially in environments like bathrooms, hospitals, and kitchens.

  • Proper disposal of waste is essential for maintaining sanitary conditions
  • Sanitary wipes are used to disinfect surfaces
healthful

Healthful refers to something that promotes good health, such as food, habits, or environments. It is more about overall well-being rather than cleanliness.

  • Eating a healthful diet is crucial for maintaining good health
  • The park offers a healthful environment for exercise

Examples of usage

  • She is very hygienic and always washes her hands before eating.
  • He is known for his hygienic practices and cleanliness.

Translations

Translations of the word "hygienic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 higiênico

🇮🇳 स्वच्छ

🇩🇪 hygienisch

🇮🇩 higienis

🇺🇦 гігієнічний

🇵🇱 higieniczny

🇯🇵 衛生的 (えいせいてき)

🇫🇷 hygiénique

🇪🇸 higiénico

🇹🇷 hijyenik

🇰🇷 위생적인 (wi-saeng-jeog-in)

🇸🇦 صِحّي

🇨🇿 hygienický

🇸🇰 hygienický

🇨🇳 卫生的 (wèishēng de)

🇸🇮 higienski

🇮🇸 hygíenískur

🇰🇿 гигиеналық

🇬🇪 ჰიგიენური (higienuri)

🇦🇿 gigiyenik

🇲🇽 higiénico

Etymology

The word 'hygienic' originated from the French word 'hygiénique', which in turn comes from the Greek word 'hygiēnē', meaning 'health'. The concept of hygiene has been important throughout history, with a focus on cleanliness and health practices to prevent disease and promote well-being.

See also: hygiene.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,853, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.