sanitizing
UK[ˈsænɪtaɪzɪŋ]US[ˈsænɪtaɪzɪŋ]
v
making something clean and free from bacteria or other microorganisms that cause disease.
v
making something acceptable by removing unpleasant, offensive, or damaging elements.
Morpheme Breakdown
sanit
ize
ing
sanit
health
ize
verb suffix
ing
present participle suffix
Etymology
the word 'sanitizing' is built upon the core latin root 'sanitas', meaning health. the addition of the greek-derived suffix '-ize' transforms the noun into a verb, meaning 'to make healthy'. the modern sense of cleaning to remove germs directly extends this literal meaning of promoting health. the further addition of the '-ing' suffix forms the present participle, indicating the ongoing action of this health-making process.
Analysis
Structure: sanit (health) + ize (verb suffix) + ing (present participle suffix)
sanit originates from latin 'sanitas' (health). ize is a verb-forming suffix from greek '-izein' via latin '-izare'. ing is the present participle/gerund suffix from old english '-ende' and '-ing'.
Examples
the hospital staff is thoroughly sanitizing all surfaces in the operating room.
the editor is responsible for sanitizing the classified document before its public release.
after handling raw chicken, sanitizing your hands and kitchen counters is crucial.