sterilize
verb (used with object)
to destroy microorganisms in or on, usually by bringing to a high temperature with steam, dry heat, or boiling liquid.
sterilized
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past participleof sterilize.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof sterilize.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
sterilizeverb (used with object)to destroy microorganisms in or on, usually by bringing to a high temperature with steam, dry heat, or boiling liquid.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The agency also spearheaded the construction of fly-sterilization plants in Texas, which are designed to release sterilized New World screwworm flies into the wild and mitigate reproduction.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 4, 2026
That means the fish aren’t sterilized by cooking before they are packaged and sealed.
From Salon ● May 28, 2026
Another group of eight aging mice served as controls and received sterilized fecal material instead.
From Science Daily ● May 9, 2026
Releasing sterilized males involves no pesticides, and also leverages the insect’s biology: Males in lust are adept at finding females.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 22, 2026
The hoosh pot was cleaned and scoured, filled with ice to melt, and once the water was boiling, the surgical instruments were sterilized.
From "Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World" by Jennifer Armstrong
