Definition

To clean something in order to kill or stop the growth of germs and bacteria that can cause disease.

Example

It is important to disinfect surfaces in the kitchen to keep them safe from germs.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I just cleaned the kitchen, but I forgot to disinfect the counters.

Oh no! That's super important to get rid of germs.

Yeah, I should definitely remember to disinfect next time I clean.

It's a good habit to have, especially during flu season.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Disinfect → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "infect" (from Latin "inficere", meaning to taint or stain). The word "disinfect" means to remove or eliminate infection or contamination, effectively separating it from the clean state.

Memory Tip

Think of 'removing' ('dis-') something that 'taints' ('infect') — that's why disinfect means to clean away infection.

Visually Confused Words