disinfection

noun

dis·​in·​fec·​tion ˌdis-in-ˈfek-shən 

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

However, persistent cleaning and disinfection of surfaces can help reduce exposure, particularly in bathrooms and other high-risk areas. —Aaron Valdez, The Enquirer, 16 Aug. 2024

While awaiting test results, the mammals section of the zoo will be shut from Monday for disinfection and cleaning. —Reuters, CNN, 14 Oct. 2024

These could be old pipes, disinfection by-products, or environmental pollution where the water is derived. —Kyle J. Russell, USA TODAY, 5 Sep. 2024

Common levels of chlorine disinfection measures have limited effect on the parasite, and alcohol hand sanitizers are ineffective. —Aaron Valdez, The Enquirer, 16 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1722, in the meaning defined above