Desterilization

/dɪˌstɛrɪləˈzeɪʃən/ noun

Definition

The process of removing sterility from something or allowing contamination to occur; the reversal of sterilization.

Etymology

From de- (to reverse) + sterilization (from sterile, Latin sterilis meaning barren) + -ation; a technical term used in medical and scientific contexts.

Kelly Says

Desterilization is the horror scenario in medical labs—a sterilized instrument becomes contaminated and loses its sterile status, which is why hospitals have elaborate protocols and traceability systems to prevent it from happening during surgery.

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