sterilizer

noun

ster·​il·​iz·​er ˈster-ə-ˌlī-zər 

plural sterilizers

: one that sterilizes something: such as

a

: an apparatus for destroying viable microorganisms (as by the use of steam or dry heat) compare autoclave, sterilant

b

: a person whose work involves sterilizing something (such as medical equipment)

Examples of sterilizer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The pantry also has bottle sterilizers and warmers, a washing machine (and baby laundry detergent), and a microwave to warm baby food and formula. Guests who don’t have access to the pantry can get some baby items upon request. —Bella Stoddart, CNBC, 25 Feb. 2025

Seven sterilizer plants operate in that U.S. territory. —Andy Miller, USA TODAY, 29 Apr. 2024

Aaron Szabo recently represented the Advanced Medical Technology Association, an industry trade group that includes commercial sterilizers that use ethylene oxide. —Lisa Song, ProPublica, 5 Feb. 2025

For instance, what new parent wouldn't love a cube-sized portable sterilizer that easily attaches to a diaper bag, or a viral hip carrier that makes touting their little one basically effortless? —Ashley Ziegler, Parents, 5 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sterilizer

• advertiser
• analyser
• analyzer
• appetizer
• atomizer
• breathalyzer
• colonizer
• crystallizer
• digitizer
• equalizer
• fertilizer
• localizer

Kids Definition

sterilizer

noun

ster·​il·​iz·​er

ˈster-ə-ˌlī-zər

: one that sterilizes something

especially : a device used for sterilizing by steam, boiling water, or dry heat

Medical Definition

sterilizer

noun

ster·​il·​iz·​er

variants also British steriliser

ˈster-ə-ˌlī-zər 

: an apparatus for sterilizing (as by the agency of steam, ultraviolet radiation, or chemicals)