autoclave Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a device for heating substances above their boiling point; used to manufacture chemicals or to sterilize surgical instruments
    sterilizer; steriliser.
  2. verb subject to the action of an autoclave

WordNet

Au"to*clave noun
Etymology
F., fr. Gr. self + L. clavis key.
Definitions
  1. A kind of French stewpan with a steamtight lid. Knight.

Webster 1913