sterilization

[ ster-uh-luh-zey-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act of sterilizing.
2. the condition of being sterilized.
3. the destruction of all living microorganisms, as pathogenic or saprophytic bacteria, vegetative forms, and spores.

sterilization

/ ˌstɛrɪlaɪˈzeɪʃən /

noun

1. the act or procedure of sterilizing or making sterile
2. the state of being sterile; sterilized condition

sterilization

/ stĕr′ə-lĭ-zā′shən /

1. The procedure of destroying all microorganisms in or on a given environment, such as a surgical instrument, in order to prevent the spread of infection. This is usually done by using heat, radiation, or chemical agents.
2. Any of various surgical procedures intended to eliminate the capacity to reproduce in humans or animals.

sterilization

1. The removal of all microorganisms and other pathogens from an object or surface by treating it with chemicals or subjecting it to high heat or radiation . Sterilization also refers to procedures that result in infertility. Vasectomies and tubal ligations, in which the fallopian tubes of a woman are tied off, are examples of sterilization techniques.

Other Words From

• nonster·i·li·zation noun
• rester·i·li·zation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of sterilization¹

First recorded in 1870–75; sterile + -ization

Example Sentences

Sometimes it was granted on the condition that the patient agree to permanent sterilization after the procedure.

From Los Angeles Times

They point to the history of eugenics-inspired sterilization and even more recent incidents.

From Salon

Such targeted populations have also been subjected to eliminationist violence and forced sterilization.

From Salon

As canine sterilization efforts like Anupriya’s have started to stabilize the dog population, she and others are turning their attention upward.

From Salon

A study published in April 2024 found that a rise in tubal sterilizations among females was twice as high as the increase among vasectomies in males after Dobbs.

From Salon

Related Words

• castration
• infertility