disinfectant
noun
Note: Common chemical disinfectants include chlorine, calcium and sodium hypochlorite, iodophor, phenol, ethanol, and quaternary ammonium compounds. Disinfectants are often distinguished from sterilants by having reduced effectiveness against dormant bacterial endospores.
Examples of disinfectant in a Sentence
Rylee Johnston, Travel + Leisure, 16 Mar. 2025
Then there was all the anxious wiping down of groceries with disinfectant wipes.
—Madalyn Mendoza, Axios, 11 Mar. 2025
Once the area has been cleared, mop with disinfectant or bleach.
—Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 10 Mar. 2025
If the brush has metal parts, wooden handles, or rubber grips (as most do) hand-washing and then disinfecting with diluted vinegar or pet-safe disinfectant is a safer option.
—Kathy Barnes, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for disinfectant
Cite this Entry
“Disinfectant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disinfectant. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.
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disinfectant
1 of 2 noun
Note: Common chemical disinfectants include chlorine, calcium and sodium hypochlorite, iodophor, phenol, ethanol, and quaternary ammonium compounds. Disinfectants are often distinguished from sterilants by having reduced effectiveness against dormant bacterial endospores.
disinfectant
2 of 2 adjective
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