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
1
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."
2
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 notesIn plain EnglishTo make completely germ-free, or to permanently remove the ability to reproduce.
Common pairings
sterilize equipment
sterilize an animal
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- sterilizes
- Past tense
- sterilized
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Always _____ baby bottles before the first use.
Etymology
From sterile plus the verb-forming suffix -ize.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for sterilize
See all rhymes for sterilize →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.
