germicidal

adjective

ger·​mi·​cid·​al ˌjər-mə-ˈsī-dᵊl How to pronounce germicidal (audio)
Synonyms of germicidalnext
: of or relating to a germicide
also : destroying germs

Examples of germicidal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
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 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 The Whitney has a fumigation guy who uses a process called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation. — Jake Offenhartz, New Yorker, 21 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for germicidal

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of germicidal was in 1870

Rhymes for germicidal

See All Rhymes for germicidal

Browse Nearby Words

germ gland
germicidal
germicide
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Germicidal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/germicidal. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

germicidal

adjective
ger·​mi·​cid·​al ˌjər-mə-ˈsīd-ᵊl How to pronounce germicidal (audio)
: of or relating to a germicide
also : destroying germs

Medical Definition

germicidal

adjective
ger·​mi·​cid·​al ˌjər-mə-ˈsīd-ᵊl How to pronounce germicidal (audio)
: of or relating to a germicide
also : destroying germs

More from Merriam-Webster on germicidal

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for germicidal

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