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Definition of "disinfectant" [dis•in•fect•ant]

  • An agent, such as heat, radiation, or a chemical, that destroys, neutralizes, or inhibits the growth of disease-carrying microorganisms. (noun)
  • Serving to disinfect. (adjective)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "disinfectant" in a sentence
  • "Then researchers dunk their hands in disinfectant and exit through the chemical shower."
  • "But really I wonder if the reason for the iodine disinfectant is more because the water is not potable than there is much difference in the relative contamination of the fruits and veggies themselves."
  • "Everyone always talks about "washing fruits and vegetables" and soaking in disinfectant when you live there."