[ster-uh-luh-zey-shuh
n] 
| 1. | the act of sterilizing. |
| 2. | the condition of being sterilized. |
| 3. | the destruction of all living microorganisms, as pathogenic or saprophytic bacteria, vegetative forms, and spores. |
| ster·il·i·za·tion (stěr'ə-lĭ-zā'shən) n.
|
The removal of all microorganisms and other pathogens from an object or surface by treating it with chemicals or subjecting it to high heat or radiation.
Sterilization also refers to procedures that result in infertility. Vasectomies and tubal ligations, in which the fallopian tubes of a woman are tied off, are examples of sterilization techniques.
Sterilization
The process of a central bank or federal reserve insulating itself from the foreign exchange market to counteract the effects of a changing monetary base.
Investopedia Commentary
For example, to weaken the U.S. dollar against another currency, the Fed would sell more U.S. dollars and buy the foreign currency. The increased supply of the U.S. dollar lowers the value of the currency. The Fed would do the opposite if it wanted to strengthen the U.S. dollar.
Related Links
Floating And Fixed Exchange Rates
Dual And Multiple Exchange Rates
What Are Central Banks?
Formulating Monetary Policy
A Primer On The Forex Market
Getting Started In Forex
See also: Central Bank, Federal Reserve, FOREX, Monetary Policy, Sterilized Intervention
Also spelled: Sterilize, Sterilizing
sterilization ster·il·i·za·tion (stěr'ə-lĭ-zā'shən)
n.
The act or procedure of sterilizing.
The condition of being sterile or sterilized.