disinfectant
n.a liquid or spray used to kill germs and bacteria on surfaces. You use it to clean floors, counters, or your hands to keep them safe from illness.
n.a substance used to destroy or inhibit the growth of microorganisms on inanimate surfaces. Often distinguished from antiseptics, which are applied to living tissue.
“Wipe the kitchen counter with a disinfectant after cooking.”
“The hospital staff uses a strong disinfectant to clean the floors and equipment after every patient visit.”
“While a mild soap removes dirt and some bacteria, a hospital-grade disinfectant is required to ensure the complete eradication of pathogens from high-touch surfaces.”
“There are many easy and cost-effective ways to purify water, such as boiling, filtration and treating with chemical disinfectants.”
“The acidity of the tomatoes acts as a disinfectant.”
From disinfect + -ant, borrowed from French désinfectant.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.