sterilize Definition
- 1to make something completely clean and free from bacteria or other microorganisms
- 2to make a person or animal unable to have children, especially by removing part of their reproductive system
Using sterilize: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "sterilize" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The surgical instruments were sterilized before the operation.
Example
The milk is pasteurized to sterilize it.
Example
The cat was sterilized to prevent unwanted kittens.
Example
The government has been accused of sterilizing women without their consent.
sterilize Synonyms and Antonyms
Antonyms for sterilize
Phrases with sterilize
self-sterilizing bottle
a bottle that uses UV-C light technology to kill bacteria and viruses, keeping the bottle clean and safe to use
Example
The self-sterilizing bottle is perfect for parents who want to keep their baby's bottle clean and safe.
to treat soil with heat or chemicals to kill all living organisms, including bacteria, fungi, and pests
Example
Before planting, it's important to sterilize soil to prevent diseases and pests from damaging the plants.
to clean and disinfect equipment to prevent the spread of infections and diseases
Example
It's important to sterilize equipment in hospitals to prevent the spread of infections among patients.
Origins of sterilize
from Latin 'sterilis', meaning 'barren'
Summary: sterilize in Brief
The verb 'sterilize' [ˈsterəlaɪz] means to make something completely clean and free from bacteria or other microorganisms, or to make a person or animal unable to have children. Examples include sterilizing surgical instruments, milk, and pets. The phrase 'self-sterilizing bottle' refers to a bottle that uses UV-C light technology to kill bacteria and viruses. Sterilizing soil and equipment are also common practices.
