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noun Uncommon

sterilization

Sterilization (noun) means the process of killing off all germs and microorganisms on something. Example: “The hospital follows strict sterilization procedures for its instruments.”

noun
1
The process of killing off all germs and microorganisms on something.
"The hospital follows strict sterilization procedures for its instruments."
2
A medical procedure that permanently prevents someone (or an animal) from reproducing.
"The vet recommended sterilization to control the local cat population."

How to use sterilization

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishEither wiping out germs completely, or a procedure that permanently ends fertility.

Common pairings
heat sterilization sterilization procedure

Word forms

sterilizations plural

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The hospital follows strict _____ procedures for its instruments.

Etymology

From sterile plus the suffix -ization.

Related words

Rhymes for sterilization

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Frequently asked questions

What does “sterilization” mean?

The word “sterilization” means the process of killing off all germs and microorganisms on something. In plain terms, either wiping out germs completely, or a procedure that permanently ends fertility.

How do you use “sterilization” in a sentence?

Here is “sterilization” used in a sentence: “The hospital follows strict sterilization procedures for its instruments.”

What part of speech is “sterilization”?

“Sterilization” is a noun.

Is “sterilization” a common word?

“Sterilization” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “sterilization” have?

“Sterilization” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the process of killing off all germs and microorganisms on something.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial