disinfection

noun

dis·​in·​fec·​tion ˌdis-in-ˈfek-shən 

plural disinfections

: the act of disinfecting something

especially : the process of using a disinfectant to destroy, inactivate, or significantly reduce the concentration of pathogenic agents (such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi)

Both viruses are susceptible to disinfection by a weak solution of chlorine bleach.

—Margaret Reister

… a virulent strain of antibiotic-resistant bacteria spreads beyond hospital walls, some communities are taking extreme measures such as closing schools for disinfection.

—Laura Landro

Examples of disinfection in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Common levels of chlorine disinfection measures have limited effect on the parasite, and alcohol hand sanitizers are ineffective. —Aaron Valdez, The Enquirer, 16 Aug. 2024

The remediation work includes mechanical cleaning and disinfection of the entire cooling system, and long-term cleaning and water management plans. —Marlene Lenthang, NBC News, 13 Aug. 2024

In situations involving infectious diseases or certain types of contaminants, health professionals might recommend boiling as a last resort to ensure complete disinfection. —Aksha Mittapalli, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 July 2024

Farms are required to create a secure area with limited access points around animals, establishing cleaning and disinfection protocols for vehicles and people, and keeping a record of all the people and vehicles that enter the animal zone. —Kristen Jordan Shamus, Detroit Free Press, 28 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1722, in the meaning defined above