Definitions

1. adjective

not producing or capable of producing living offspring; not fertile

“The doctor warned the couple that the wife’s operation may leave her sterile.”

2. noun

a condition or process in which something is made free from living organisms, especially bacteria or microorganisms

“The hospital’s sterilization process included autoclaving equipment and washing hands thoroughly.”

3. adverb

in a way that is free from living organisms, especially bacteria or microorganisms

“The nurse sterilized the wound with an antiseptic solution.”