Microbicidal: meaning, definitions and examples

Microbicidal refers to substances that can kill or inactivate various types of microorganisms. It's often used in scientific and medical contexts to describe agents that eliminate a wide range of microbes, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

• The laboratory tested the microbicidal properties of the new compound
• The spray has microbicidal action, making it effective against a wide variety of pathogens

Germicidal generally refers to substances that kill germs, and it is often used in everyday language and commercial settings to describe cleaning and disinfecting products. Germs can include bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms.

• The disinfectant spray is advertised as being 99
• 9% germicidal
• Germicidal wipes are handy for cleaning surfaces in high-traffic areas

Antimicrobial is a broad term that encompasses agents that kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms. This word is commonly used in both everyday and scientific discussions to describe substances that fight infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

• Doctors often prescribe antimicrobial medications to treat infections
• The kitchen surfaces are coated with an antimicrobial layer to prevent contamination

Bactericidal specifically refers to substances that kill bacteria. It is typically used in medical and scientific settings and is often contrasted with bacteriostatic, which refers to substances that inhibit bacterial growth without necessarily killing the bacteria.

• The antibiotic has a bactericidal effect, meaning it kills the bacteria causing the infection
• Bleach is a common bactericidal agent used in hospitals