disinfectant

UK: ˌdɪsɪnˈfektənt | US: ˌdɪsɪnˈfɛktənt

Definition

  1. n. a chemical substance used to destroy harmful microorganisms or inhibit their growth, especially on surfaces or objects.

Structure
dis <remove>infect <contaminate>ant <noun suffix (agent)>
Etymology

The word "disinfectant" combines three morphemes:

  1. dis- (from Latin dis-, meaning "apart" or "remove") negates or reverses the action.
  2. infect (from Latin inficere, "to stain, corrupt") refers to contamination by pathogens.
  3. -ant (a suffix forming agent nouns, from Latin -antem) indicates something that performs an action.
    Originally used in medical contexts, the term evolved to describe substances that actively eliminate germs, reflecting a scientific approach to hygiene.
Examples

  1. Hospitals use strong disinfectants to prevent the spread of infections.

  2. Always dilute the disinfectant before applying it to surfaces.

  3. The new disinfectant is effective against both bacteria and viruses.

  4. She wiped the kitchen counter with a disinfectant spray.

  5. Environmental regulations restrict the disposal of certain disinfectants.