WordLens

sterilize

1 of 1verb
/ˈstɛrəlaɪz/
Forms:sterilizes,sterilizing,sterilized,sterilized
1

to remove all bacteria or other microorganisms from something

transitive
  • She sterilizes surgical instruments to prevent infections during procedures.
  • Parents sterilize baby bottles by boiling them in water before use.
  • Tattoo artists sterilize their equipment to ensure a safe and hygienic environment.
  • The beautician is sterilizing the tools for the next client.
  • The laboratory has sterilized the samples for analysis.
2

to deprive a person or animal of the ability to produce offspring, typically by removing or blocking the sex organs

transitive
  • The veterinarian sterilized the dog to prevent unwanted litters.
  • She decided to sterilize her cat to avoid future pregnancies.
  • The farm animals were sterilized to control the population.
  • The animal shelter sterilized all their pets before adoption.
  • He was sterilized as part of a medical procedure.