What does sterilize mean?
Sterilize means to make something sterile, most commonly by destroying microorganisms on or in an object. Hospitals use the term for the treatment of surgical instruments, equipment, and materials, while laboratories and food producers use it for objects that must be free of viable microorganisms, including resistant spores. The verb can also mean making a person or animal infertile, though this sense is less common and is often used in biological, agricultural, or historical contexts. Figuratively, sterilizing something means neutralizing its effectiveness, such as sterilizing an argument or removing an institution’s capacity to exert power. The word is related to “sterile” and “sterility,” and its basic sense is defined by the removal of organisms capable of reproduction or contamination.
To make something free of viable microorganisms, typically by using heat, chemicals, radiation, or another suitable process.
"The factory sterilizes the containers before filling them."
In technical contexts, sterilization implies the elimination of microorganisms and their spores, rather than merely reducing their number.
To make a person or animal incapable of reproducing.
"The operation sterilized the male animal."
This sense is less common and may be technical, historical, or figurative.
To make something ineffective or deprive it of power or influence.
"The new measure was designed to sterilize the organization’s political influence."
This is a figurative use, especially common in political and social commentary.
Sterilizing is one of medicine’s invisible safeguards: it can make a surgical instrument safe by removing the microorganisms that could cause infection.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sterilize come from?
The word comes from French stériliser, which was derived from Latin sterilis, meaning “barren” or “infertile.” The English sense of destroying microorganisms developed from the broader older sense of making something sterile. Its relatives include the adjective “sterile” and the noun “sterility,” both sharing the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How sterilize is actually used
In medical and laboratory contexts, “sterilize” usually means to eliminate all viable microorganisms, including resistant spores. In figurative use, it often describes neutralizing an argument, proposal, institution, or potential threat.
Easily confused with sterilize
Sanitizing generally reduces harmful microorganisms to a safe level, whereas sterilizing aims to eliminate viable microorganisms and their spores.