What does "sterilizer" mean?

A device used to sterilize, killing pathogens by means such as heat, UV light, chemicals, etc.

Sterilizer

Common synonyms include: autoclave, biocidal agent, chemical sterilant, sterilant, steriliser, sterilization device.

noun

noun ·4 syllables ·Rare ·Advanced level

Noun

1
A device used to sterilize, killing pathogens by means such as heat, UV light, chemicals, etc.
"The hospital was in trouble when the sterilizer broke; they almost had to shut down the operating room."
2
a device for heating substances above their boiling point; used to manufacture chemicals or to sterilize surgical instruments wordnet

"The hospital was in trouble when the sterilizer broke; they almost had to shut down the operating room."

From sterilize + -er.