Definition of sanitize

The word "sanitize" has its roots in Latin. The Latin word "sanus" means "healthy" or "sound," and the suffix "-ate" is a verb-forming suffix that indicates action or state. Therefore, the Latin word "sanitare" means "to make healthy" or "to restore to health." The word "sanitize" entered the English language in the 14th century, initially meaning "to make healthy" or "to cure." Over time, the meaning of the word shifted to "to make clean and free from contamination." In the 19th century, with the rise of public health concerns, the term "sanitize" began to be used to describe the process of cleaning and disinfecting surfaces to prevent the spread of diseases. Today, "sanitize" is commonly used in a variety of contexts, including food safety, medical settings, and general hygiene practices.