: 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
Example Sentences
The organization encourages people to sterilize their cats and dogs.
Recent Examples on the WebIf it can be separated, urine can act to partly sterilize itself. Keely Larson, Ars Technica, 20 Aug. 2022 The gas that is used to sterilize some medical equipment may cause cancer. Amy Hubbard, Los Angeles Times, 13 Aug. 2022 The new center can sterilize soil, precisely control soil conditions and keep genetic mutations inside the labs where the research is done. Lee Roop | Lroop@al.com, al, 27 July 2022 Also sterilize the pruners between cuts so not to spread the disease organisms. Tom Maccubbin, Orlando Sentinel, 2 July 2022 Two of the 23 facilities targeted by EPA — in Hanover and Jessup, Maryland — are used to sterilize spices.Fox News, 3 Aug. 2022 Two of the 23 facilities targeted by EPA — in Hanover and Jessup, Maryland — are used to sterilize spices. Matthew Daly, ajc, 3 Aug. 2022 The compound is a colorless gas used to sterilize medical equipment and make products such as adhesives. Hyeyoon Alyssa Choi, Los Angeles Times, 23 May 2022 Make sure to first sterilize the cup by submerging it in an open pot of boiling water for 5-10 minutes before using. Emma Seymour, Good Housekeeping, 6 July 2022 See More