sanitize
UK: ˈsænɪtaɪz | US: ˈsænɪtaɪz
vt. to make clean and hygienic; to remove dirt or harmful substances
vt. (computing) to modify data to prevent malicious code execution
vt. (figurative) to remove objectionable or sensitive content
sanitize = san<health> + itize<verb suffix>
- san (from Latin sanitas, meaning "health")
- itize (verb-forming suffix, derived from Greek -izein, indicating "to make or render")
Etymology Origin:
The word sanitize originates from the Latin sanitas (health), reflecting its core meaning of promoting cleanliness or health. The suffix -ize (via Greek -izein) transforms it into an action verb, emphasizing the process of making something hygienic. Over time, its usage expanded metaphorically to digital and editorial contexts (e.g., "sanitizing data" or "sanitizing text").
Hospitals must sanitize equipment to prevent infections.
The software sanitizes user input to block SQL injection attacks.
Editors were asked to sanitize the report by removing confidential details.
This cleaner effectively sanitizes surfaces without harsh chemicals.
The government was accused of sanitizing historical records.