Definitions

1. verb

to destroy or remove all bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms from (something) by using heat, chemicals, etc., so that it is no longer infectious

“The hospital staff had to sterilize the operating room after the patient’s surgery.”

2. verb

to render (something, especially a woman) incapable of bearing children

“The medical procedure was intended to sterilize her, but it had an unexpected side effect.”

3. noun

the process of destroying or removing all bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms from (something)

“The sterilization of the equipment was crucial to prevent contamination.”