Meaning
消毒 means to eliminate or reduce harmful microorganisms (bacteria, viruses) from surfaces, objects, or wounds. It's a common medical and hygiene term used in hospitals, homes, and public spaces. The word literally combines '消' (eliminate) and '毒' (poison/toxin).
Usage
This term became especially prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic when discussing surface cleaning and hygiene protocols. It's used in both medical contexts (disinfecting surgical instruments) and everyday situations (sanitizing hands or countertops). Native speakers use it as a verb, often in phrases like '给...消毒' (to disinfect something).
Examples
- 01医生用酒精给伤口消毒。.The doctor disinfected the wound with alcohol.
- 02疫情期间，我们每天都要给家里消毒。, .During the pandemic, we had to disinfect our home every day.
Characters
Measure words
- 次消毒一次
Common collocations
- 消毒液disinfectant (liquid)
- 消毒剂disinfectant (agent)
- 给...消毒...to disinfect something
- 酒精消毒alcohol disinfection
Antonyms
Origin
The term combines 消 (to eliminate/disperse) with 毒 (poison/harmful substances), literally meaning 'to eliminate poison.' This reflects the traditional Chinese medical understanding of disease as related to toxic influences.