disinfectant
/,disin'fektənt/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun:
- A substance that destroys microorganisms that might carry disease: A disinfectant is an agent, typically a chemical, that is applied to non-living objects or surfaces to kill or inactivate disease-causing microorganisms (germs) like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It is used for cleaning and sanitizing.
Adjective:
- Having the property of destroying microorganisms; serving to disinfect: When used as an adjective, it describes a substance or action that prevents infection by inhibiting or destroying the growth or action of microorganisms.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Hospital staff use a strong disinfectant to clean the operating rooms.
- Please apply the disinfectant to the kitchen counter after preparing raw meat.
- Adjective:
- The disinfectant solution must be left on the surface for at least five minutes to be effective.
- They used disinfectant wipes to clean the shared equipment.
Advanced Usage
- "Disinfectant properties": Refers to the inherent ability of a substance to kill germs.
- Vinegar is known for its natural disinfectant properties.
- "Broad-spectrum disinfectant": A disinfectant effective against a wide variety of microorganisms.
- For general household use, a broad-spectrum disinfectant is recommended.
Variants and Related Words
- Disinfect (verb): To clean something using a disinfectant to destroy germs.
- You must disinfect the wound to prevent infection.
- Disinfection (noun): The process of using a disinfectant.
- The disinfection of the water supply is crucial for public health.
Synonyms
- Antiseptic (Note: An antiseptic is typically used on living tissue, like skin, while a disinfectant is used on surfaces.)
- Germicide: An agent that kills germs.
- Sanitizer: An agent that reduces germs to a safe level.
Related Phrases
- Disinfectant spray: A disinfectant in a spray bottle form for easy application.
- Keep a disinfectant spray near the sink for quick cleanups.
- Disinfectant wipe: A pre-moistened cloth containing disinfectant.
- Use a disinfectant wipe to clean your phone screen.
Related Idioms
Adjective
- preventing infection by inhibiting the growth or action of microorganisms
Noun
- an agent (as heat or radiation or a chemical) that destroys microorganisms that might carry disease