Word
sterilize
Phoneticsster·il·ize, stress on the first syllable
/ˈstɛɹəˌɫaɪz/
UK spelling · sterilise
Definition
v. to kill all germs on something so it is completely clean and safe to use. It can also mean to make a person or animal unable to have babies.
v. to destroy all living microorganisms on or in an object or substance, typically by heat or chemical means. Extended to rendering a person or animal incapable of reproduction.
Examples
“Nurses sterilize tools before every operation.”
“The clinic must sterilize all needles after each use to prevent infection.”
“After the outbreak, the hospital introduced strict protocols to sterilize surgical suites, ventilation systems, and reusable instruments between procedures.”
Examples
simple
“Nurses sterilize tools before every operation.”
contextual
“The clinic must sterilize all needles after each use to prevent infection.”
complex
“After the outbreak, the hospital introduced strict protocols to sterilize surgical suites, ventilation systems, and reusable instruments between procedures.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “sterilize” in context.
Verb
01. sterilize bottle
“New parents should sterilize bottles before every feed.”
verb + noun
02. sterilize equipment
“Hospitals must sterilize equipment after every use.”
verb + noun
03. sterilize instrument
“The dentist will sterilize instruments before your check-up.”
verb + noun
04. sterilize needle
“Always sterilize needles to prevent infection.”
verb + noun
05. sterilize pet
“Many owners choose to sterilize pets to avoid unwanted litters.”
verb + noun
Adjective
06. completely sterilize
“Boiling water does not completely sterilize surgical tools.”
adv + verb
07. properly sterilize
“If you do not properly sterilize jars, the jam will go bad.”
adv + verb
08. must be sterilized before use
“All surgical tools must be sterilized before use.”
09. properly sterilize medical instruments
“Nurses properly sterilize medical instruments before every operation.”
10. sterilize equipment with steam
“The hospital sterilizes equipment with steam to kill bacteria.”
11. sterilize pets to prevent breeding
“Vets recommend you sterilize pets to prevent breeding.”
12. sterilize the bottle before use
“Always sterilize the bottle before use to protect your baby.”
Usage
The verb is transitive and takes a direct object.
Real-World Examples
“One of the most promising techniques deployed in recent years is to sterilize males using X-rays and then release them in targeted areas .” “Huge numbers of male flies were sterilized with radiation and released into the environment.” “Even a few millimeters of material sealing over the crack could provide protection from deadly UV rays, which would otherwise sterilize any type of unprotected life on the Red Planet.” “Only a small population of deer will be sterilized – those living near the town of Avalon – and all others will be killed.” Etymology
From sterile + -ize.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related words
Domains
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/sterilize