sanitation

American  

[san-i-tey-shuhn] / ˌsæn ɪˈteɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the development and application of sanitary measures for the sake of cleanliness, protecting health, etc.

2. the disposal of sewage and solid waste.

---

sanitation British  

/ ˌsænɪˈteɪʃən /

noun

1. the study and use of practical measures for the preservation of public health

---

Etymology

Origin of sanitation

First recorded in 1840–50; sanit(ary) + -ation

Example Sentences

He said 2,600 sanitation workers were plowing roads, plus an additional 1,400 emergency snow shovelers who were clearing sidewalks and bus stops.

From BBC

But some 8.5 million people are suffering the breakdown of food distribution, widespread unemployment, the collapse of hospitals, the failure of public sanitation and potable-water supplies, a housing deficit, and epidemics of contagious diseases.

From The Wall Street Journal

In April 1968, Jackson joined King in Memphis, where the civil rights leader had decided to stand with striking Black sanitation workers.

From Los Angeles Times

The weather improved as the Little Ice Age ended, and techne improved medicine, midwifery and sanitation.

From The Wall Street Journal

Coups, conflicts and rights abuses may get discussed, but the main theme is water sanitation.

From Barron's

Related Words

• cleanliness
• hygiene