decontaminate
verb (used with object)
to make (an object or area) safe for unprotected personnel by removing, neutralizing, or destroying any harmful substance, as radioactive material or poisonous gas.
have decontaminated
-
present perfectof decontaminate.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Officials have decontaminated the facility’s inmate housing as a precaution and medical staff are monitoring prisoners and staff for possible symptoms, The Mercury News reported.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 12, 2026
A biosafety officer showed Fox News an airlock where scientists have decontaminated after working their shifts.
From Fox News ● Mar. 30, 2020
The number of deaths, near-deaths and disfigurements will depend on how well the people have avoided radiation and have decontaminated themselves, and on how promptly they-have received good medical care.
From Time Magazine Archive
