disinfection

noun

dis·​in·​fec·​tion ˌdis-in-ˈfek-shən How to pronounce disinfection (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Serving as an influential authority in the field of environmental restoration, disinfection, and bioremediation, ITS environmental services has built a steady reputation for effective professionalism infused with kindness. William Mullane, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2025 Frequent disinfection could be upping the likelihood of hard-to-treat pathogens emerging. Lauren Leffer, Popular Science, 27 Feb. 2025 The company’s current expansion efforts are derived from the dire need for restoration, disinfection, and bioremediation services on a national scale. William Mullane, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2025 As the pandemic heightened this awareness, disinfection, toxins and safeguards have become top priorities. Josh Bruni, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for disinfection

Word History

First Known Use

1722, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of disinfection was in 1722

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Cite this Entry

“Disinfection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disinfection. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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