sterilize
|ster-i-lize|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈstɛrəˌlaɪz/
🇬🇧
/ˈstɛrɪlaɪz/
make free from microorganisms
Etymology
Etymology Information
'sterilize' originates from the Latin word 'sterilis,' meaning 'barren' or 'unproductive.'
Historical Evolution
'sterilis' transformed into the French word 'stériliser,' and eventually became the modern English word 'sterilize.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to make barren or unproductive,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to make free from microorganisms or to make unable to reproduce.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to make something free from bacteria or other living microorganisms.
The surgical instruments were sterilized before the operation.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35