Septic Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

septic

adjective

sep·​tic ˈsep-tik How to pronounce septic (audio)
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 There are also off-grid capabilities through private solar power, a septic system, and a high-volume water well. Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 20 Feb. 2024 And those who have septic systems or wells should be aware of potential damage to underground equipment by parking vehicles on the lawn. Craig Webb, The Enquirer, 15 Feb. 2024 One resident reported that his septic system stopped functioning because his ground had become constantly supersaturated, brought on by changing drainage patterns caused by additional development outside of the neighborhood. Eric Rockel, Baltimore Sun, 9 Feb. 2024 Bacteria can make their way into waterways via leaky sewage pipes, failing septic systems and pet waste. Caitlin Looby, Journal Sentinel, 24 Jan. 2024 According to the Environmental Protection Agency, over 20% of homes in the U.S. depend on septic systems. Terri Williams, Forbes, 15 Feb. 2024 The bleach formula is safe for most pipes, including PVC and metal, and also works in garbage disposals and septic systems. Cai Cramer, Peoplemag, 3 Feb. 2024 According to a company history and information presented by Ryan’s son, R.J., at the 50th anniversary event, at first the business centered around the completion of septic systems, foundations, and the installation of farm conservation practices. Kevin Dayhoff, Baltimore Sun, 27 Jan. 2024 They were ordered to begin the removal of the deck, all septic components, and the well, in addition to applying for an abandonment permit and securing the dwelling to prevent any entry. Shannon Larson, BostonGlobe.com, 24 July 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'septic.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Latin septicus, from Greek sēptikos, from sēpein to putrefy

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of septic was in 1597

Dictionary Entries Near septic

Cite this Entry

“Septic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/septic. Accessed 27 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

septic

adjective
sep·​tic ˈsep-tik How to pronounce septic (audio)
1
2
: relating to, involving, caused by, or affected with sepsis
septic complications
septic arthritis
septic patients

More from Merriam-Webster on septic

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