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sterilize

verb

/ˈstɛr əˌlaɪz/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of sterilize

To eliminate or destroy all forms of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, from a surface, object, substance, or environment.
"The restaurant kitchen must sterilize cutting boards and utensils to prevent cross-contamination."

Detailed meaning of sterilize

This process aims to render the target free from any potentially harmful pathogens that could cause infection or disease. Sterilization often involves using physical or chemical methods, such as heat, steam, radiation, or disinfectants, to achieve a high level of cleanliness and ensure the complete eradication of microorganisms. It is commonly employed in medical settings, laboratories, food preparation areas, and various industries where maintaining a sterile and safe environment is crucial to prevent contamination and promote health and safety.

Example sentences containing sterilize

1. It is important to sterilize baby bottles to ensure the baby's safety.
2. The water treatment plant uses chlorine to sterilize the water supply.
3. In the laboratory, scientists sterilize media to ensure accurate and uncontaminated results.
4. The surgical team wore sterile gloves and gowns to sterilize the operating room.
5. To prevent infection, hospitals sterilize the bedsheets and towels regularly.
6. The laboratory follows strict protocols to sterilize the lab coats and gloves after each use.

History and etymology of sterilize

The verb 'sterilize' finds its etymological roots in the same Latin source as 'sterile.' It is derived from the Latin word 'sterilis,' which meant 'barren' or 'unproductive.' In English, 'sterilize' emerged to describe the action of eliminating or destroying all forms of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, from a surface, object, substance, or environment. The term reflects the idea of rendering something incapable of supporting life or reproduction, mirroring its original Latin meaning of barrenness. 'Sterilize' has become a vital concept in various fields, including medicine and food preparation, where the complete eradication of harmful microorganisms is crucial for health and safety.

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Further usage examples of sterilize

1. The swimming pool is treated with chemicals to sterilize the water and maintain its cleanliness.
2. It's important to sterilize baby bottles to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
3. The medical staff will sterilize the equipment after each use.
4. The laboratory technician must sterilize the Petri dishes before starting the experiment.
5. It is necessary to sterilize the water before drinking it in some regions.
6. The dentist will sterilize the dental tools before treating the patient.
7. The canning process involves heating to sterilize the food and preserve its freshness.
8. Before performing a tattoo, the artist must sterilize the needles and equipment.
9. In order to prevent infections, hospitals meticulously sterilize their operating rooms.
10. The laboratory follows strict protocols to sterilize the lab coats and gloves.
11. To prevent cross-contamination, the kitchen staff must sterilize the cutting boards.
12. The beauty salon adheres to industry standards and regularly sterilizes their equipment.
13. The veterinarian will sterilize the surgical instruments before the animal surgery.
14. It is important to sterilize the feeding bottles to protect the baby's health.
15. The public swimming pool uses chemicals to sterilize the water and maintain hygiene.
16. Before planting, gardeners often sterilize the soil to eliminate pests and diseases.
17. The laboratory technician will sterilize the test tubes for the experiment.
18. In food processing plants, heat is used to sterilize canned products.
19. To ensure safety, tattoo parlors must sterilize their equipment after each client.