Definitions

1. verb

to make something free from living microorganisms, especially bacteria, viruses, and fungi, especially by heat, chemicals, or radiation.

“The hospital staff had to sterilise all the equipment before surgery.”

2. verb

to remove the power of reproduction from (something, especially living cells).

“The scientist sterilised the seeds to prevent them from producing any more plants.”

3. noun

the process of making something free from living microorganisms.

“The sterilisation process took several hours to complete.”