Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Sterility Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿงผ
Add to dictionary

sterility

[stษชหˆrษชlษชti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medical

The state or quality of being sterile; inability to produce offspring; incapacity for reproduction.

Synonyms

barrenness, infertility, sterilization.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
sterility

Used to describe an environment free from bacteria or germs, often in medical or scientific settings. Can also refer to the inability to produce offspring, applicable to both humans and animals.

  • The surgeon ensured the sterility of the instruments before starting the operation.
  • The research focuses on sterility in livestock.
infertility

Used specifically to describe the inability to conceive children or sustain a pregnancy. This term is often used in medical and personal contexts.

  • After years of trying, they finally sought help for infertility.
  • Infertility treatments can be physically and emotionally taxing.
barrenness

Used to describe land that is unable to produce vegetation or, less commonly, to describe a woman who cannot have children. This term can have a negative connotation when used to describe human infertility.

  • The barrenness of the desert made it difficult for any plants to grow.
  • She struggled with the emotional impact of her barrenness.
sterilization

Refers to a process or method of making something free from bacteria or other living microorganisms. It can also refer to a medical procedure to make a person or animal unable to reproduce.

  • Sterilization of medical tools is crucial to prevent infections.
  • The couple opted for sterilization as a permanent form of birth control.

Examples of usage

  • Sterility can be caused by various factors such as genetic disorders or hormonal imbalances.
  • Many couples struggle with the emotional impact of sterility when trying to conceive.
  • The doctor diagnosed the patient with sterility after conducting several tests.
Context #2 | Noun

general

The quality or condition of being free from living germs or microorganisms.

Synonyms

asepsis, cleanliness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
sterility

Same as first entry; it emphasizes a complete absence of living organisms, often in a medical or laboratory setting.

  • Sterility is essential for producing safe medical implants.
  • The contamination was avoided due to the sterility of the work environment.
asepsis

Employ 'asepsis' in medical or clinical environments to refer specifically to practices aimed at preventing infection or contamination by pathogens.

  • Asepsis is critical in wound care to prevent infection.
  • The medical staff followed strict asepsis protocols during the procedure.
cleanliness

This word is more general and can be used in everyday contexts to indicate the state of being clean, free from dirt, or impurities.

  • She takes great care in maintaining the cleanliness of her home.
  • The cleanliness of the restaurant was impressive and reassuring.

Examples of usage

  • The sterility of the surgical instruments is crucial to prevent infections.
  • In laboratories, sterility is maintained to ensure accurate results of experiments.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, sterility can occur in plants and animals due to genetic factors, environmental stress, or disease.
  • Medical procedures can create a sterile environment to prevent infection, particularly in surgeries.
  • In human reproduction, sterility can result from various factors, including hormonal imbalances, age, or genetic issues.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In some cultures, sterility can carry social stigma, affecting personal identities and family structures.
  • Fertility treatments and alternative family planning methods are increasingly accepted in many societies, reshaping notions around reproduction.

Psychology

  • The psychological impact of sterility can lead to feelings of inadequacy, depression, or anxiety in individuals facing infertility challenges.
  • Support groups and counseling are beneficial for many dealing with the emotional aspects of sterility.

Literature

  • Sterility as a theme appears in literature to explore human relationships, identity, and existential questions.
  • In dystopian novels, sterility often symbolizes a loss of hope or the consequences of societal neglect.

Origin of 'sterility'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'sterilis', which means 'barren' or 'unproductive'.
  • The early use of the word in English dates back to the 14th century, referring to land that couldn't grow crops.

The word 'sterility' originates from the Latin word 'sterilis' meaning 'barren' or 'unproductive'. The concept of sterility has been significant in various fields such as medicine, biology, and agriculture. Throughout history, the understanding and management of sterility have evolved, leading to advancements in fertility treatments, sterile techniques in healthcare, and agricultural practices.

See also: sterilize.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,553, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.