disinfect
/dɪsɪnˈfɛkt/ · dis.in.fect
verb
- To sterilize by the use of a cleaning agent, especially to eliminate or destroy microorganisms. The hospital staff disinfects the operating room after each surgery to prevent the spread of infection.
- To remove or destroy microorganisms from a surface or object. She disinfects the kitchen counters after preparing raw meat to prevent the growth of bacteria.
noun
- The act of sterilizing by the use of a cleaning agent. The disinfecting process takes several minutes to complete.
gerund
- The act of sterilizing by the use of a cleaning agent, considered as a process or activity. The disinfecting of the hospital rooms is a priority for the infection control team.
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Did you know? The first commercial disinfectant, carbolic acid, was introduced in the 19th century by Joseph Lister, a British surgeon who pioneered the use of antiseptics in medicine.