Decontamination
(noun)
The process of removing harmful substances, such as chemicals, radioactive materials, or biological agents, from an object, environment or person.
Origin:
Derived from the prefix 'de-' meaning to reverse or undo and 'contamination' meaning the process of making something impure or unclean.
Examples:
- The decontamination process was used to remove the toxic chemicals from the spill site.
- The decontamination procedures were put into place to prevent the spread of the virus.
- The decontamination team was equipped with protective gear to safely perform the decontamination.
- The decontamination of the nuclear power plant was a complex and time-consuming process.
- The decontamination procedures are an important part of disaster response planning.