sterilization
nounUK /ˌsterəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/
US /ˌsterələˈzeɪʃən/
Sterilization is the process of making something completely clean so that no germs are left on it.
The hospital uses sterilization to keep its tools free of germs.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A medical procedure that makes a person or animal unable to have babies.
The vet recommended sterilization for the stray cats.
3. The act of taking away someone's or something's ability to produce results or have influence.
The new rules led to the sterilization of the committee's power.
4. In farming, treating soil with heat or chemicals to kill pests and weeds.
Soil sterilization helps farmers protect their crops from disease.