Spanish word

biocida

Pronunciation

IPA/bjoˈθiða/

Meaning

  • masculine noungermicide

Example

Este producto es un biocida muy fuerte, úsalo con guantes.

This product is a very strong germicide; wear gloves when handling it.

Illustration for biocida (germicide)

More examples

Lee la etiqueta para saber si contiene biocida.

Read the label to see if it contains a germicide.

Core concept

Substance that kills or inhibits microorganisms to protect products, food, or tissues.

Similar words

desinfectante: Kills microbes on surfaces and objects to disinfect equipment and areas.
antiséptico: Kills microbes on skin and wounds to prevent local infection.
bactericida: Kills bacteria specifically to eliminate bacterial contamination.
fungicida: Kills fungi and molds to prevent fungal growth and spoilage.

Definition in Spanish

Sustancia utilizada para proteger materiales, alimentos o tejidos del deterioro microbiano mediante la eliminación o el control de organismos vivos.

Word origin

From Greek bios 'life' plus the Latin-derived suffix -cida 'killer', used for agents that eliminate or control living microbes.

Usage tips

  • In practical use biocida is a technical/regulatory label term, while consumer-facing products usually name the specific action with desinfectante, sanitizante, or conservante.

Other meanings

  • disinfectantnoun
  • sanitizernoun

Word lists with this word