What term describes a state of being free from organisms that can cause disease?

The term that best describes a state of being free from organisms that can cause disease is "sterile." Sterility refers to the complete absence of all viable microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, that could potentially cause infections or illness. Achieving a sterile condition is crucial in medical settings, such as during surgeries or when handling injectable medications, to prevent any risk of infection.

The other terms do not convey the same level of absence of pathogens. "Infected" indicates the presence of disease-causing organisms, while "clean" generally refers to the absence of dirt but does not imply that harmful microorganisms are eliminated. "Purified" often pertains to the removal of impurities, which may not necessarily mean that all pathogens are eradicated. Thus, "sterile" is the most precise term for describing a state completely free from disease-causing organisms.