# decontamination

/dikənˌtæməˈneɪʃən/ (US) · /dˌiːkəntˌæmɪnˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/decontamination
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

the process of cleaning something to remove dangerous germs, chemicals, or radioactive materials. You often hear this word in hospitals or after a chemical accident.

For teachers: the process of removing or neutralising contaminants, such as biological agents, chemicals, or radioactive substances, from a surface or environment.

## Examples

- The hospital staff performed a full decontamination of the emergency room.
- After the chemical spill, the entire factory floor underwent a rigorous decontamination process to ensure worker safety.
- Effective decontamination requires not only the physical removal of hazardous materials but also the neutralisation of any residual toxins that might remain in the soil or air.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.