GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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  1.       
Autoclave (), n. [F., fr. Gr. αὐτός self + L. clavis key.]
    1. A kind of French stewpan with a steam-tight lid.  Knight.

    [1913 Webster]


    2. a device used for sterilizing objects by exposing them to steam at above atmospheric pressure (and thus at a temperature above the normal boiling point of water).  It consists of a closed chamber able to withstand internal pressure, and a means of passing superheated steam into the chamber.  Autoclaves are made in various sizes, and are much used in hospitals and research laboratories to render instruments and equipment sterile.

    [PJC]

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