sterilize

verb

ster·​il·​ize ˈster-ə-ˌlīz 

sterilized; sterilizing

transitive verb

: to make (something or someone) sterile: such as

a

: to free from all viable microorganisms (as by the use of steam or dry heat)

sterilize surgical instruments in an autoclave

b(1)

: to deprive of the power of reproducing through surgery

sterilize cats and dogs

(2)

: to make incapable of germination

studied the effects of sterilizing wheat florets

c

: to cause (land) to become unfruitful

There, 1,100-degree pyroclastic flows had sterilized the land.

—Christine Colasurdo

Examples of sterilize in a Sentence

The organization encourages people to sterilize their cats and dogs.

Recent Examples on the Web

Avoid getting manicures and pedicures at a salon, as nail tools can increase your risk of infection if not sterilized properly. —Julie Scott, Msn, Anp-Bc, Aocnp, Verywell Health, 11 Feb. 2025

Also, when pruned, sterilize the pruning equipment between palms to prevent the spread of diseases. —Tom MacCubbin, Orlando Sentinel, 8 Feb. 2025

In order for tissue culture to be successful, the cutting used needs to be completely sterilized, or fungus and bacteria will ruin the culture. —Dr. Matthew Lisy, Hartford Courant, 1 Feb. 2025

Just make sure to sterilize the container with a 10% bleach solution to destroy any lingering root rot pathogens. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1676, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing sterilize

• pre-sterilize

Kids Definition

sterilize

verb

ster·​il·​ize ˈster-ə-ˌlīz 

sterilized; sterilizing

: to make sterile: as

a

: to deprive of the power of reproduction

had their cat sterilized

b

: to free of microscopic living things and especially germs (as bacteria)

sterilize the dental instruments

sterilization

ˌster-ə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

Medical Definition

sterilize

transitive verb

ster·​il·​ize

variants also British sterilise

ˈster-ə-ˌlīz 

sterilized also British sterilised; sterilizing also British sterilising

: to make sterile:

a

: to deprive of the power of reproducing

b

: to free from living microorganisms (as by the use of physical or chemical agents)

sterilize a surgical instrument

sterilization

ˌster-ə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

also British sterilisation

-ˌlī-ˈ