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

Bacteria can enter the water due to rain runoff, failing septic systems, leaking sewer hookups and wildlife waste. — Raven Brunner, PEOPLE, 14 July 2026

Any development along the unique stretch of Big Sur coastline is typically complex, but the listing suggests groundwork has been laid, including early planning related to septic and site conditions. — David Caraccio updated July 13, Sacbee.com, 13 July 2026

Also called Eastern poplar, they’re related to willow trees, and their shallow roots can easily uproot sidewalks, driveways, foundations, and septic systems. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 2 July 2026

The 35-year-old Ira Township man was among the workers installing field tile for a septic system. — Paula Wethington, CBS News, 1 July 2026

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

Rhymes for septic

• peptic
• sceptic
• skeptic
• antiepileptic
• antiseptic
• epileptic
• neuroleptic
• aseptic
• dyspeptic
• organoleptic

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