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sterilize Synonyms
Another word for sterilize
Choosing another word for sterilize depends on context, so the 15 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
• verb (Context 1)
To make free from bacteria or other living microorganisms, typically by applying heat, radiation, or chemicals.
Usage Example
"Medical staff must disinfect all surgical instruments in an autoclave before each procedure."
Strongest
disinfect
sanitize
Strong
pasteurize
decontaminate
purify
fumigate
cleanse
• verb (Context 2)
To deprive a person or animal of the ability to produce offspring, typically by removing or blocking the reproductive organs.
Usage Example
"The local animal shelter works with veterinarians to neuter stray cats and dogs."
Strongest
neuter
spay
Strong
castrate
desex
geld
• verb (Context 3)
To offset the effect of foreign exchange interventions on the domestic money supply through central bank open-market operations (in economics).
Usage Example
"The central bank decided to offset the massive inflow of foreign capital by selling government bonds."
Strong
offset
neutralize
counteract
Opposites of sterilize
The opposite of sterilize shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:
contaminate
fertilize
infect
impregnate
pollute
taint
• Nearby Words
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Sterilize. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/sterilize