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germicidal

adjective

Definition of germicidalnext
as in antibacterial

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of germicidal Humans have known for over a hundred years that UV radiation can kill deadly germs, and hospitals have used germicidal 254-nm UVC to sterilize objects for decades. — IEEE Spectrum, 8 Mar. 2023 Some researchers are similarly enthusiastic about the promise of germicidal lighting. — Jacob Stern, The Atlantic, 13 Oct. 2022 In those, schools could consider turning to HEPA filters or germicidal UV, Bahnfleth said. — Stephanie Gosk, NBC News, 17 Aug. 2022 Even with caution, accidental exposure of germicidal ultraviolet light can occur, leaving people at risk for painful burns and scarring. — William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 2 May 2022 See All Example Sentences for germicidal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for germicidal
  1. antibacterial
  2. antiseptic
  3. antibiotic
  4. sanitary
  5. hygienic
  6. aseptic
Adjective
  • After washing, the appliance can move through steam sanitization and hot-air drying before entering a 72-hour antibacterial storage mode, which circulates filtered air to help keep cleaned parts dry and ready for use.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 9 Sep. 2026
  • According to Krouse, Mānuka’s antibacterial power comes from methylglyoxal, or MGO, a compound that stays stable even with heat and light exposure.
    — Lauren Valenti, InStyle, 9 Sep. 2026
Definition of antibacterial
Adjective
  • The sequel, on the other hand, is shaped by baffling decisions from director Susanne Bier and cinematographer Simon Duggan that render the film antiseptic.
    — Angelica Jade Bastién, Vulture, 11 Sep. 2026
  • Using his antiseptic surgical technique, Joseph Lister successfully drained the pus.
    — Abe Baker-Butler, STAT, 9 Sep. 2026
Definition of antiseptic
Adjective
  • In the human gut, for example, nutrient levels go up and down, temperatures shift and antibiotic threats come and go.
    — Shiladitya Banerjee, The Conversation, 10 Sep. 2026
  • Along with smarter antibiotic use, Deng called for more public education, healthcare training, vaccination programs and investment for research and diagnostic tools.
    — Laura Sharman, CNN Money, 9 Sep. 2026
Definition of antibiotic
Adjective
  • As the war raged on, this makeshift countermeasure was replaced by more sanitary and effective innovations, including gauze pads soaked in hyposulfite solution, flannel hoods, tube helmets, and box respirators.
    — Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 19 Aug. 2026
  • Here’s what our pros recommend for dusting your bedroom to keep it sanitary and easy to breathe in.
    — Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 18 Aug. 2026
Definition of sanitary
Adjective
  • Once dry, the items can remain protected inside the machine in a hygienic storage environment supported by a medical-grade HEPA filter.
    — Wyles Daniel, USA Today, 9 Sep. 2026
  • Add a deep clean every one to three months to provide a hygienic environment for your food.
    — Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Sep. 2026
Definition of hygienic
Adjective
  • The color grading may be warm, but the blocking and understanding of bodies reveals the film to be an aseptic exercise.
    — Angelica Jade Bastién, Vulture, 3 Apr. 2026
  • Amanda’s mother seems to activate when given the chance to paint at a nursing home, an aseptic and terrible place for which everyone in the family seems to be awkwardly auditioning.
    — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 17 Feb. 2026
Definition of aseptic

Browse Nearby Words

germfree
germicidal
germicide
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Germicidal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/germicidal. Accessed 22 Sep. 2026.

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