pasteurize

verb

pas·​teur·​ize ˈpas-chə-ˌrīz  ˈpas-tyə-  -tə- 

pasteurized; pasteurizing

transitive verb

: to subject to pasteurization

pasteurizer noun

Examples of pasteurize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Since then, testing has shown the virus present in dairy herds in 17 states, though pasteurized milk, which is what most Americans consume, is considered safe. —Trevor Hughes, USA TODAY, 28 Feb. 2025

While the virus can contaminate eggs and milk, thorough cooking or pasteurizing ensures safety. —Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 18 Feb. 2025

Cat owners and caretakers are urged to follow these tips: Refrain from feeding cats any dairy products that have not first been pasteurized or thoroughly cooked to kill the virus. —Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 24 Jan. 2025

However, eggs that are still in their shells aren’t required to be pasteurized, leading to potential health risks if eaten raw or uncooked. —Fernanda Galan, Sacramento Bee, 7 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Louis Pasteur

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for pasteurize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• agonize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize

Kids Definition

pasteurize

verb

pas·​teur·​ize ˈpas-chə-ˌrīz  ˈpas-tə- 

pasteurized; pasteurizing

: to expose to pasteurization

pasteurizer noun

Etymology

named for Louis Pasteur 1822–1895 French chemist

Medical Definition

pasteurize

transitive verb

pas·​teur·​ize

variants also British pasteurise

ˈpas-chə-ˌrīz  ˈpas-tə- 

pasteurized also British pasteurised; pasteurizing also British pasteurising

: to subject to pasteurization

pasteurizer noun

also British pasteuriser