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Decontaminate - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

To decontaminate means to remove or neutralize harmful substances, such as chemicals, germs, or pollutants, from a person, object, or area to make it safe for use or contact.

decontaminate

/ˌdiːkənˈtæməneɪt/ /ˌdiːkənˈtæmɪneɪt/

Definition:

Remove dangerous or harmful substances from a person, object, or area.

Synonyms:

purify, cleanse, sanitize, sterilize

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

contaminate, pollute

Common Collocations:

decontaminate equipment, decontaminate water, decontaminate surfaces

Derivatives:

decontamination, decontaminant

Usage Tips:

Use for removing pollutants or toxins; often in medical, environmental, or industrial contexts.

Common Phrases:

decontaminate the area, thoroughly decontaminate, emergency decontamination

Etymology:

From Latin *de-* (reverse) + *contaminare* (to pollute), meaning to undo contamination.

Examples:

  • 1. The workers must decontaminate the lab after the experiment.
  • 2. Scientists developed a new method to decontaminate polluted water efficiently.
  • 3. After the chemical spill, crews worked to decontaminate the affected zone.
  • 4. Hospitals use UV light to decontaminate surgical instruments.

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