Autoclaved

/ˈɔːtəkleɪvd/ adjective

Definition

Having been sterilized by treatment in an autoclave using high temperature and pressure.

Etymology

The past participle of the verb 'autoclave' (to sterilize using an autoclave). Adding the -ed suffix creates the adjective form indicating something has undergone autoclave treatment.

Kelly Says

When a medical supply says 'autoclaved,' it means every single germ, bacterium, and virus has been killed by superheated steam under pressure. This is why autoclaved instruments are safe for surgery—it's basically the nuclear option for killing microbes.

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