hygiene

noun

hy·​giene ˈhī-ˌjēn How to pronounce hygiene (audio)
 also  hī-ˈjēn
1
: a science of the establishment and maintenance of health
2
: conditions or practices (as of cleanliness) conducive to health
has poor personal hygiene
Brushing your teeth regularly is an important part of good oral hygiene.
see also feminine hygiene
hygienist noun

Examples of hygiene in a Sentence

Poor sanitation and hygiene caused many of the soldiers to get sick. He has very poor personal hygiene. Brushing your teeth regularly is an important part of good dental hygiene.
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.
In other words, a medical pedicure prioritizes medical-grade hygiene and treatment instead of mere cosmetics. Zoe Ruffner, Vogue, 22 Nov. 2024 These individuals are more likely to commit to exercise, downtime, and sleep hygiene, and prioritize connections with peers through support or coaching groups. Philip Salter, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024 Here's a list of 11 grooming and hygiene gadget essentials: Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects: on sale for $29.99 Original price: $45.99 (Amazon) Stock up on Crest 3DWhitestrips Professional Effects tooth whitener. Nora Colomer, Fox News, 29 Oct. 2024 Critical needs include permanent housing options, access to essential food, clothing, and hygiene items, cell phones, and transportation. Jade Jackson, The Indianapolis Star, 29 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for hygiene 

Word History

Etymology

French hygiène & New Latin hygieina, from Greek, neuter plural of hygieinos healthful, from hygiēs healthy; akin to Sanskrit su well and to Latin vivus living — more at quick entry 1

First Known Use

1671, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of hygiene was in 1671

Dictionary Entries Near hygiene

Cite this Entry

“Hygiene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hygiene. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

hygiene

noun
hy·​giene ˈhī-ˌjēn How to pronounce hygiene (audio)
1
: a science that deals with the bringing about and keeping up of good health in individuals and groups
2
: conditions or practices (as of cleanliness) that are aids to good health

Medical Definition

hygiene

noun
hy·​giene
ˈhī-ˌjēn also hī-ˈ
1
: a science of the establishment and maintenance of health see industrial hygiene, mental hygiene
2
: conditions or practices (as of cleanliness) conducive to health
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!