disinfectant
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˌdɪsɪnˈfɛktənt//
KK: /ˌdɪsɪnˈfɛktənt/
adjective
Definition
A substance that is used to kill germs and bacteria on surfaces or in the air.
Example
The hospital uses a strong disinfectant to keep the environment clean and safe.
Conversation
Did you see that new disinfectant spray they have at the store?
Yeah, I heard it works really well against germs.
I think I might get some for my kitchen.
That's a great idea! Keeping things clean is so important.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
sanitizing
sterilizing
cleansing
Antonyms
contaminating
infectious
dirty
noun
Definition
A substance used to kill germs and bacteria on surfaces to prevent infection.
Example
The hospital uses a strong disinfectant to clean the operating rooms.
Conversation
I just bought some new disinfectant for the kitchen.
That's a good idea! Keeping things clean is really important.
Yeah, especially during cold and flu season.
Root Explanation
Disinfectant → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "infectare" (meaning to infect). The word "disinfectant" refers to a substance that removes or destroys infection, effectively separating or removing the harmful agents.
Memory Tip
Think of something that works to 'remove' ('dis-') an 'infection' ('infectare') — that's why disinfectant is used to clean and purify.
Visually Confused Words
infectant