disinfectant
noun
Note: Common chemical disinfectants include chlorine, calcium and sodium hypochlorite, iodophor, phenol, ethanol, and quaternary ammonium compounds. Disinfectants are often distinguished from sterilants by having reduced effectiveness against dormant bacterial endospores.
Examples of disinfectant in a Sentence
Michelle Greenwald, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025
Her method for thoroughly cleaning a trash can is to remove its lid if possible and to scrub down the interior and exterior of the lid with a disinfectant.
—Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Feb. 2025
Of particular concern is the overzealous use of potent disinfectants that kill 99% of common bacteria.
—Matt Fuchs, TIME, 21 Feb. 2025
Those measures include washing down car tires, limiting visitors, requiring staff to shower before and after entering the facility, and using footbaths with disinfectant for shoes.
—Cnn.com Wire Service, The Mercury News, 10 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for disinfectant
Cite this Entry
“Disinfectant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disinfectant. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.
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disinfectant
1 of 2 noun
Note: Common chemical disinfectants include chlorine, calcium and sodium hypochlorite, iodophor, phenol, ethanol, and quaternary ammonium compounds. Disinfectants are often distinguished from sterilants by having reduced effectiveness against dormant bacterial endospores.
disinfectant
2 of 2 adjective
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