English Reference
adjective · noun

sanitary

adj. · n.
US /ˈsænɪˌtɛɹi/ UK /sˈænɪtəɹi/ san·i·tary

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.clean and free from germs that cause disease.

    adj.relating to the maintenance of health and the prevention of disease through cleanliness; free from pathogens.

    Simple

    The hospital must keep all its equipment in sanitary conditions to prevent infections.

    In context

    Maintaining sanitary standards in food processing facilities is essential to prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses across the population.

    unsanitarydirtyunhygienic
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Technical

    adj.relating to the systems that handle human waste and keep water clean.

    adj.relating to the systems for the disposal of sewage and the provision of clean water for public health.

    Simple

    The city invested in a new sanitary sewer system to improve public health.

    In context

    The rapid growth of the urban population has put immense pressure on the existing sanitary infrastructure, leading to frequent water contamination issues.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate British English

    n.a pad used by women during their period.

    n.an absorbent pad worn by women during menstruation; a shortened form of 'sanitary towel' or 'sanitary pad'.

    Simple

    The school provides free sanitary products in the girls' bathrooms.

    In context

    The charity campaigns for better access to sanitary towels for girls in developing regions to ensure they do not miss school during their periods.

    Usage

    Usually used as a modifier in phrases like 'sanitary products' or 'sanitary bin'.

But the judiciary’s union said the court’s decision was based on factors including the children’s safety, sanitary conditions and education.

The Guardian· 3 Sept 2026

19th century, borrowed from French sanitaire, formed from Latin sanitas (“health”). Analysable as sanity + -ary.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin sanitas
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated