CEFR C1

sterilize

verb

Meaning

Make something completely free from bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms.

Examples

You must sterilize the baby's bottle in boiling water before every use.
The laboratory technician used high-pressure steam to sterilize the equipment.

Synonyms: clean, sanitize, disinfect, decontaminate

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sterilize (C1)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈstɛrəˌlaɪz/

Definition

Make something completely free from bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms.

Examples

You must sterilize the baby's bottle in boiling water before every use.
The laboratory technician used high-pressure steam to sterilize the equipment.
Medical professionals are trained to sterilize their hands thoroughly to prevent the spread of infection.

How to Use sterilize

sterilize with (prepositional phrase): Using a specific agent or method to achieve sterility. — "The lab techs sterilize the surfaces with a high-concentration alcohol solution."
be sterilized (collocation): Passive voice usage for objects undergoing the process. — "All surgical tools must be sterilized before they are used in the operating room."

Synonyms of sterilize

Words with a similar meaning to sterilize:

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