Definition
A topical antiseptic spray containing benzalkonium chloride, widely used to disinfect minor cuts, scrapes, and wounds; marketed as a painless alternative to iodine-based products. A household staple from the 1960s onward, known for its quick-drying spray application.
Example Usage
After I scraped my hand, she sprayed Bactine on it and the sting went away almost immediately.
Origin
Proprietary brand name, likely derived from 'bacteria' and '-tine' (a suffix); developed and marketed by Miles Laboratories starting in the 1960s.
Fun Fact
Bactine was heavily marketed in the 1970s and 1980s as a gentler, faster alternative to Mercurochrome and iodine, and its red spray bottle became iconically associated with childhood first aid; the brand is still sold today.
Related Terms
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