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ster·i·lize
 sterilize
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- pronunciation:
- ste
r
laIz
- features:
- Word Combinations (verb), Word Parts
| part of speech: |
transitive verb |
| inflections: |
sterilizes, sterilizing, sterilized |
| definition 1: |
to free of live microorganisms; decontaminate.
- antonyms:
- contaminate
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| definition 2: |
to render unable to reproduce, as by removing or damaging the reproductive organs.
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| related words: |
purify |
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| derivations: |
sterilizable (adj.), sterilizer (n.) |
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