micro

Sterilization: any process that completely removes or destroys all viable microorganisms, including spores & viruses, from an object, media, or habitat

Sterile: completely free of all microorganisms & viruses

Aseptic: the minimization of contamination from pathogenic organisms

Disinfection: the process of killing non-sporulating (vegetative) microbes, usually on inanimate surfaces; viable organisms remain

Disinfectant: chemicals used to disinfect inanimate objects (bactericides, virucides, fungicides)

Antiseptic: chemical used for disinfection of tissues (can be used on skin*)

Decontamination: reduces organisms to safe levels

Sanitization: the process of reducing microbial populations to levels considered safe by public health standards

Pasteurization: a method of treating food by heating it to a certain point to kill pathogenic organisms but not harm the flavor/quality of the food (does NOT lead to sterilization