Sterilization Meaning and Definition
Sterilization
Pronunciation
/ˌstərɪlɪˈzeɪʃən/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
The process of making something, especially a surface or an area, completely free from living microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, by using heat, chemicals, or radiation.
Examples
- The hospital uses sterilization methods to prevent the spread of infections.
- The surgeon sterilized the instruments before the operation.
Synonyms
- Disinfection
- Sanitization
- pasteurization
Antonyms
- Contamination
- Infection
- Pollution
Etymology
The word “sterilization” comes from the Latin words “sterilis,” meaning “barren” or “infertile,” and the suffix “-ization,” indicating the act of making something into something.
Usage Notes
Sterilization is often used in medical, scientific, and industrial contexts. It is essential to follow proper sterilization protocols to prevent cross-contamination and ensure patient safety.
Cultural References
Sterilization has been used as a plot device in various science fiction stories, including the TV show “ER” and the movie “Pandorum.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Sterilize the area” is a common phrase used to emphasize the importance of cleanliness.
Related Words or Phrases
- Decontamination
- Antiseptic
- Cleaning
Collocations
- Sterilization equipment
- Sterilization procedures
- Sterilization protocols
Frequency of Use
Sterilization is a widely used term in modern language, especially in medical and scientific contexts.
Common Misspellings
Sterilization can be often misspelled as “sterillization” or “steralization.”