sterilisation
/ˌstɛrɪlɪˈzeɪʃən/ · ster·i·li·sa·tion
noun
- The process of treating an object or surface so that all microorganisms are killed or rendered inactive. The laboratory follows a strict sterilisation protocol before each experiment.
- A medical or veterinary procedure that permanently prevents an organism from reproducing. The clinic offers sterilisation for pets to control the stray animal population.
- A specific instance of a sterilisation procedure. The surgeon performed three sterilisations of surgical instruments during the operation.
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Did you know? NASA sterilises spacecraft destined for other planets to prevent Earth microbes from contaminating extraterrestrial ecosystems, a practice known as planetary protection.