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Meaning of sterile
The primary meaning of the word "sterile" refers to something that is unable to produce or support life, or is completely clean and free from bacteria or other living microorganisms.
Etymology of sterile
The word "sterile" comes from the Latin "sterilis", meaning "barren" or "unfruitful", which is derived from the verb "sterere", meaning "to make barren" or "to sterilize".
Historically, the word "sterile" was first used in the 15th century to describe something that was unable to produce offspring or seeds.
Over time, the word's meaning expanded to include other senses, such as a place or environment that is unable to support life or growth.
Synonyms
Definitions
- (of a person, animal, or plant) unable to produce offspring or seeds
- (of a place or environment) unable to support life or growth
- (of a medical instrument or procedure) completely clean and free from bacteria or other living microorganisms
- (of an argument or idea) lacking in interest or significance
Usage Examples
- The hospital room was kept sterile to prevent infection.
- The soil was sterile and unable to support plant growth.
- The argument was sterile and lacked any real substance.
- The couple was sterile and unable to have children.