First Known Use: 1598
Dictionary
disinfect
verb dis·in·fect \ˌdis-in-ˈfekt\
: to clean (something) especially by using a chemical substance that kills all germs and bacteria
computers : to remove a virus from (a computer) by using a special program
Full Definition of DISINFECT
transitive verb
: to free from infection especially by destroying harmful microorganisms; broadly : cleanse
— dis·in·fec·tion \-ˈfek-shən\ noun
See disinfect defined for English-language learners
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Origin of DISINFECT
Middle French desinfecter, from des- dis- + infecter to infect
Rhymes with DISINFECT
acrolect, architect, birth defect, circumspect, deselect, dialect, disaffect, disconnect, disrespect, edge effect, genuflect, grapholect, incorrect, indirect, in effect, intellect, interject, intersect, introject, introspect, lake effect, misdirect, preselect, re-collect, recollect, redirect, reelect, resurrect, retrospect, self-respect, side effect, turtlenecked, vivisect
DISINFECT Defined for Kids
disinfect
verb dis·in·fect \ˌdi-sən-ˈfekt\
dis·in·fect·eddis·in·fect·ing
Definition of DISINFECT for Kids
: to cleanse of germs that might cause disease
Medical Dictionary
disinfect
transitive verb dis·in·fect \ˌdis-ən-ˈfekt\
Medical Definition of DISINFECT
: to free from infection especially by destroying harmful microorganisms
—dis·in·fec·tion \-ˈfek-shən\ noun
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