lysol
/'laisɔl/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A proprietary antiseptic and disinfectant solution: "Lysol" is a brand name for a clear, oily, brown-colored liquid solution. Its primary active ingredients are cresols (a type of phenol) dissolved in soap. It is used to kill germs, bacteria, and viruses on surfaces to prevent infection and the spread of disease.
Examples of Usage
- Noun:
- The hospital staff used Lysol to disinfect the examination rooms.
- For general cleaning, she diluted a small amount of Lysol in water.
- Historically, Lysol was advertised for a wide range of household disinfecting purposes.
Advanced Usage
- As a mass noun: "Lysol" is typically used as an uncountable noun when referring to the substance itself.
- The strong smell of Lysol filled the hallway after cleaning.
Variants and Related Words
- Disinfectant (n): A general term for any chemical agent used to destroy harmful microorganisms on non-living surfaces.
- Antiseptic (n): A substance that prevents the growth of disease-causing microorganisms, typically used on living tissue (e.g., skin). While Lysol is primarily a disinfectant for surfaces, its historical definition and some formulations blur this line.
- Cresol (n): The type of phenolic compound that is a key active ingredient in traditional Lysol formulas.
Synonyms
- Disinfectant: A substance that destroys germs on surfaces.
- Germicide: An agent that kills microorganisms.
- Antiseptic (in some historical/contextual uses): A substance that inhibits microbial growth.
Notes on Meaning
- Brand Name vs. Generic Term: "Lysol" is a registered trademark. While it is often used informally to refer to similar disinfectant sprays or liquids, it specifically refers to products made by the Lysol brand.
- Historical Context: In the early 20th century, "Lysol" was marketed for uses that are now considered unsafe or inappropriate, such as personal feminine hygiene. Modern usage is almost exclusively for hard-surface disinfection.
Noun
- a clear oily brown solution of cresols in soap; used as an antiseptic and disinfectant