disinfection

noun

dis·​in·​fec·​tion ˌdis-in-ˈfek-shən How to pronounce disinfection (audio)
plural disinfections
: the act of disinfecting something
especially : the process of using a disinfectant to destroy, inactivate, or significantly reduce the concentration of pathogenic agents (such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi)
Both viruses are susceptible to disinfection by a weak solution of chlorine bleach. Margaret Reister
… a virulent strain of antibiotic-resistant bacteria spreads beyond hospital walls, some communities are taking extreme measures such as closing schools for disinfection. Laura Landro

Examples of disinfection in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The water then passes through a UV light for an extra step of disinfection before it’s released into the air. Euna Park, Southern Living, 30 Dec. 2024 However, this therapy should not replace good wound care treatment, such as disinfection. Praveen Arany, The Conversation, 24 Jan. 2025 Cunard increased disinfection and cleaning onboard and isolated sick guests and crew, among other steps, according to the CDC. Nathan Diller, USA TODAY, 26 Dec. 2024 Experts recommend proceeding with caution and continuing disinfection routines. Angelica Stabile, Fox News, 15 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for disinfection 

Word History

First Known Use

1722, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of disinfection was in 1722

Dictionary Entries Near disinfection

Cite this Entry

“Disinfection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disinfection. Accessed 6 Feb. 2025.

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