septic

adjective

sep·​tic ˈsep-tik 

1

: of, relating to, or causing putrefaction

2

: relating to, involving, caused by, or affected with sepsis

septic patients

3

: used for sewage treatment and disposal

a septic system

also : of or relating to a septic system

septic effluents

Examples of septic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Previously, septic system installation was overseen by the city only for new construction. —Samuel Clanton, arkansasonline.com, 7 Dec. 2024

Many districts are already on a waiting list for the funds, with $3.4 billion approved for projects to repair hazardous mold, leaky roofs and septic systems, as well as to build classrooms, modernize science labs and replace aging buildings. —Jenny Gold, Los Angeles Times, 7 Nov. 2024

Thurman became septic in the hospital due to excess tissue in her uterus that did not shed from her body itself, causing a serious infection. —Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA TODAY, 21 Sep. 2024

Well contamination is a serious problem that can be caused by agricultural runoff, a leaking septic system, or rampant bacterial growth in the area. —Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin septicus, from Greek sēptikos, from sēpein to putrefy

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing septic

• go septic
• septic shock
• septic sore throat
• septic tank

Medical Definition

septic

adjective

sep·​tic ˈsep-tik 

1

: putrefactive

2

: relating to, involving, caused by, or affected with sepsis

septic complications

septic arthritis

septic patients