What does "sanitation" mean?

1. (waste disposal systems) the systems used to remove dirty water and human waste safely to keep people healthy. 2. (public health measures) the rules and actions taken by a government to protect public health through cleanliness.

How do you use "sanitation"?

Usually uncountable when referring to the general concept or infrastructure. Often used in policy documents and academic discussions regarding infrastructure and health.

sanitation

US //ˌsænəˈteɪʃən// UK //sˌænɪtˈeɪʃən// san·i·ta·tion

1 waste disposal systems (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

the systems used to remove dirty water and human waste safely to keep people healthy.

the systems and infrastructure for the hygienic disposal or recycling of waste, particularly human excreta and sewage.

Example

Many people in the village gained access to clean water and better sanitation last year.

Example

The non-profit organisation focused on improving urban sanitation by installing modern sewage systems in the most densely populated districts.

Usage

Usually uncountable when referring to the general concept or infrastructure.
- contamination
- pollution
2 public health measures (n.)
C1 Advanced Academic Formal

the rules and actions taken by a government to protect public health through cleanliness.

the policy and practice of protecting public health through the maintenance of hygienic conditions and disease prevention measures.

Example

The government introduced new sanitation laws to prevent the spread of disease in the city.

Example

Effective public sanitation remains a cornerstone of modern urban planning, essential for mitigating the risks of waterborne epidemics in expanding metropolises.

Usage

Often used in policy documents and academic discussions regarding infrastructure and health.
- public health
- sanitary measures

Origin

From sanitary + -ation.