Sterilized: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'sterilis,' which means 'barren' or 'unproductive,' reflecting the removal of all living matter.
• First recorded use in English was in the late 15th century, initially referring to making land unproductive, before shifting to its medical meaning.

Science

• Sterilization is essential in medical settings to prevent infections during surgeries.
• Common methods include autoclaving (using steam and pressure), dry heat, and chemical sterilants like ethylene oxide.

History

• The concept of sterilization in medicine became widely recognized in the 19th century with the advancements in germ theory.
• Joseph Lister, a pioneer of antiseptic surgery, promoted sterilization in clinical settings to reduce the risk of infection.

Pop Culture

• In movies, characters often use sterilized tools in surgery scenes to emphasize the importance of cleanliness.
• Usage of sterilization is also depicted in science fiction, where spaceships must be sterilized before exploring alien worlds to avoid contamination.

Psychology

• The need for cleanliness and sterilization reflects broader human anxieties about disease and contamination.
• Research indicates that fear of germs can lead to obsessive-compulsive behaviors related to cleaning and sterilizing.

At position #14,277, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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