disinfectant

[dis-in-fek-tuhnt]

noun

1. any chemical agent used chiefly on inanimate objects to destroy or inhibit the growth of harmful organisms.

adjective

1. serving as a disinfectant.

disinfectant

/ ˌdɪsɪnˈfɛktənt /

noun

1. an agent that destroys or inhibits the activity of microorganisms that cause disease

Word History and Origins

Origin of disinfectant¹

1830–40; < French désinfectant, noun use of present participle of désinfecter, Middle French. See disinfect, -ant

Example Sentences

In addition, customers who have a water dispenser on their refrigerator should flush the device or five minutes; make and discard three batches of ice cubes and clean the ice bin with a disinfectant.

From Los Angeles Times

Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, said: "Sunlight is the best disinfectant. Only by being upfront and shining a light on inequalities can we begin to tackle the problem."

From BBC

Extra municipal workers armed with disinfectant sprays have been deployed to carry out an urban "spring clean" in public areas across the city, while additional rubbish collections are being arranged.

From BBC

Mr Inch said the water was contaminated so they washed with a disinfectant and were concerned about becoming unwell.

From BBC

Most common disinfectants do not kill C. auris, which can live on surfaces for weeks.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• hygienic 
• sterile