disinfection

American  

[dis-in-fek-shuhn] / ˌdɪs ɪnˈfɛk ʃən /

noun

1. the act or process of cleansing or purifying a room, wound, item of clothing, etc., of germs that cause disease.

   After disinfection is complete, the treated water is reintroduced back into the river to support aquatic life, recreation, and downstream drinking water supplies.

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Etymology

Origin of disinfection

disinfect + -ion

Example Sentences

Bacteria and viruses can survive inside amoebae, shielded from disinfection processes that would normally eliminate them.

From Science Daily • Jan. 25, 2026

He added the treatment works were "performing much better" over the last 24 hours, and the boiled water notice was implemented as a "precautionary step" while disinfection of water takes place.

From BBC • Dec. 5, 2025

Many vets recommend that a dog that tests positive for the illness should be put down, but there are also those who say it can be managed by taking precautions around disinfection.

From BBC • Jul. 27, 2025

But overall, the simulated results indicated that public surface disinfection, mask wearing and the use of antimicrobial surfaces are effective interventions for controlling the spread of norovirus through surfaces.

From Science Daily • Dec. 5, 2024

If he does, the nurse instructs the patient and family, arranges for the patient's removal to a sanatorium upon the physician's advice, attends to disinfection of premises and examination of remaining members of family.

From Nurses' Papers on Tuberculosis : read before the Nurses' Study Circle of the Dispensary Department, Chicago Municipal Tuberculosis Sanitarium by Various

Related Words

• purification
• sanitation
• sterilization
• washing