sterility
|ste/ri/li/ty|
/stəˈrɪləti/
inability to produce
Etymology
'sterility' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'sterilitas,' where 'sterilis' meant 'barren or unproductive.'
'sterilitas' transformed into the Old French word 'stérilité,' and eventually became the modern English word 'sterility' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'barren or unproductive,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'infertility' and 'asepsis.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality or condition of being sterile, especially the inability to produce offspring.
The sterility of the soil made it difficult for plants to grow.
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Noun 2
the state of being free from bacteria or other living microorganisms.
The sterility of the surgical instruments is crucial for patient safety.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35