ENGLISH
REFERENCE

sterilization

n. uncountable
C1 Advanced US //ˌstɛɹəɫəˈzeɪʃən// ster·il·iza·tion

n. the process of making something completely clean by killing all bacteria and germs. It can also mean a medical operation that makes a person or animal unable to have babies.

n. the process of making an object or environment free from all living microorganisms, typically through heat, chemicals, or radiation. In a biological context, it refers to any procedure that renders an individual incapable of reproduction.


SIMPLE

The nurse checked the sterilization of the surgical tools.

CONTEXTUAL

Proper sterilization of medical equipment is essential to prevent the spread of infection during surgery.

COMPLEX

The hospital implemented a rigorous protocol for the sterilization of all reusable instruments, utilizing high-pressure steam to ensure the total elimination of pathogens.

Origin

From sterile + -ization or sterilize + -ation.

Usage

Uncountable when referring to the general process; can be countable when referring to specific medical procedures.

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