sterilizer

noun

ster·​il·​iz·​er ˈster-ə-ˌlī-zər How to pronounce sterilizer (audio)
plural sterilizers
: one that sterilizes something: such as
a
: an apparatus for destroying viable microorganisms (as by the use of steam or dry heat) compare autoclave, sterilant
b
: a person whose work involves sterilizing something (such as medical equipment)

Examples of sterilizer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Next door, The Pantry offers every doodad parents might need: washing machines, tumble dryers, and bottle sterilizers to use around the clock, plus a range of family amenities — baby bathtubs, rockers, and prams — on loan for the duration of your stay. Chris Schalkx, Travel + Leisure, 24 July 2024 Two- and three-bedroom suites can accommodate larger groups or families traveling together, and amenities like toddler beds, bottle sterilizers, mini-bar locks, and bath toys are available on request. Lane Nieset, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2024 The population within 5 miles of the sterilizer plant is mostly low-income, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists. Andy Miller, USA TODAY, 29 Apr. 2024 Another lab found that a sample from a sterilizer filter was plastic and not biological material. Sam Tabachnik, The Denver Post, 17 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for sterilizer 

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sterilizer was in 1839

Dictionary Entries Near sterilizer

Cite this Entry

“Sterilizer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sterilizer. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

sterilizer

noun
ster·​il·​iz·​er
ˈster-ə-ˌlī-zər
: one that sterilizes something
especially : a device used for sterilizing by steam, boiling water, or dry heat

Medical Definition

sterilizer

noun
ster·​il·​iz·​er
variants also British steriliser
: an apparatus for sterilizing (as by the agency of steam, ultraviolet radiation, or chemicals)
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