verb

sterilize

STEH-rih-lyz

Sterilize (verb) means to destroy all germs and microorganisms on or in something. Example: “Always sterilize baby bottles before the first use.”

verb

To destroy all germs and microorganisms on or in something.

"Always sterilize baby bottles before the first use."

"The clinic sterilizes its tools between every patient."

To perform a procedure that permanently prevents a person or animal from reproducing.

"The shelter sterilizes all animals before they're adopted out."

How to use sterilize

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo make completely germ-free, or to permanently remove the ability to reproduce.

Common pairings

sterilize equipment sterilize an animal

Word forms

sterilized past tense, sterilizes singular

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Always _____ baby bottles before the first use.

Etymology

From sterile plus the verb-forming suffix -ize.

Synonyms

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fix desex unsex sterilise desexualize desexualise

Related words

break station join solution limit fix determine hole

Rhymes for sterilize

size maize prize Belize utilize capsize realize baptize idolize optimize monetize colonize

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Frequently asked questions

What does “sterilize” mean?

The word “sterilize” means to destroy all germs and microorganisms on or in something. In plain terms, to make completely germ-free, or to permanently remove the ability to reproduce.

How do you pronounce “sterilize”?

“Sterilize” is pronounced STEH-rih-lyz (/ˈstɛɹɪlaɪz/ in IPA).

How do you use “sterilize” in a sentence?

Here is “sterilize” used in a sentence: “Always sterilize baby bottles before the first use.”

What part of speech is “sterilize”?

“Sterilize” is a verb.

How many meanings does “sterilize” have?

“Sterilize” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to destroy all germs and microorganisms on or in something.

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