germicide

noun

ger·​mi·​cide ˈjər-mə-ˌsīd How to pronounce germicide (audio)
plural germicides
: something (such as an antiseptic or disinfectant) that destroys or inactivates pathogens (such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi) : an agent or preparation that is effective against germs
A better solution for people with babies or immune-compromised patients at home is to use an alcohol-based gel, which kills germs by drying them out. Last week the CDC recommended these waterless germicides even in hospitals.Bret Begun
Most cationic surfactants behave as germicides.Des W. Connell

Examples of germicide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web According to a news release, Enviro-Master uses a non-toxic, non-corrosive and food-safe germicide that's dispensed from an electrostatic sprayer, basically the equivalent of a proton pack for germs. Slone Terranella, Detroit Free Press, 3 Dec. 2020

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'germicide.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of germicide was in 1870

Dictionary Entries Near germicide

Cite this Entry

“Germicide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/germicide. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

germicide

noun
ger·​mi·​cide ˈjər-mə-ˌsīd How to pronounce germicide (audio)
: a substance that destroys germs

Medical Definition

germicide

noun
ger·​mi·​cide ˈjər-mə-ˌsīd How to pronounce germicide (audio)
: something (as an antiseptic or disinfectant) that destroys or inactivates pathogens (as bacteria, viruses, and fungi) : an agent or preparation that is effective against germs
According to the CDC, some commercially available germicides can rapidly kill ordinary vegetative forms of bacteria such as staphylococci and streptococci …Dan Scungio, Medical Laboratory Observer
Most cationic surfactants behave as germicides.Des W. Connell, Basic Concepts of Environmental Chemistry
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