germicide

noun

ger·​mi·​cide ˈjər-mə-ˌsīd 

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

According to the CDC, some commercially available germicides can rapidly kill ordinary vegetative forms of bacteria … but only select brands are effective against more resistant organisms …

—Dan Scungio

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

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for germicide

• actinide
• aldehyde
• alkoxide
• alongside
• amplified
• arsenide
• beautified
• biocide
• butoxide
• calcified
• ceramide
• certified

Kids Definition

germicide

noun

ger·​mi·​cide ˈjər-mə-ˌsīd 

: a substance that destroys germs

Medical Definition

germicide

noun

ger·​mi·​cide ˈjər-mə-ˌsīd 

: 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