'杀菌' literally means 'kill bacteria'—'杀' (shā) means 'to kill' or 'to eliminate', and '菌' (jūn) refers to 'microorganisms', especially bacteria and fungi. Together, the term denotes the process of destroying harmful microbes on surfaces, in food, water, or medical instruments to prevent infection or spoilage.

This word is commonly used in health, hygiene, food safety, and medical contexts. It often appears in compound verbs like '杀菌消毒' (sterilize and disinfect) or as part of noun phrases such as '杀菌剂' (disinfectant). Unlike general cleaning, 杀菌 specifically targets living pathogens—not just dirt—and implies a scientifically effective method (e.g., boiling, UV light, alcohol, or chlorine). It's frequently seen on product labels (e.g., antibacterial soaps, sterilizing wands) and in public health guidance.