septic tank

noun

: a tank in which the solid matter of continuously flowing sewage is disintegrated by bacteria

Examples of septic tank in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This spring, a federal appeals court agreed the Florida Department of Environmental Protection had a duty to do better, blocking new septic tanks and requiring the agency to launch a supplemental feeding program for manatees. Lois Parshley, The Atlantic, 25 Aug. 2025 That work has included repair and replacement of roofs, bathroom upgrades, landscaping, dining hall renovations, installation of a fire monitoring and alarm systems, and converting septic tanks to the sewer system and wells to city water. Brian Bell, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 Aug. 2025 The wastewater exits the home into the septic tank, where solids settle to the bottom of the tank to form a sludge layer, and the lighter waste forms a scum layer that floats at the top. Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Aug. 2025 Ordered by a federal judge to save starving manatees from polluted septic tanks, Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection came down hard on the wrong side — the side of the tanks. Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 14 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for septic tank

Word History

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of septic tank was in 1896

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Cite this Entry

“Septic tank.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/septic%20tank. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

septic tank

noun
: a tank in which solid sewage is broken down by bacteria

More from Merriam-Webster on septic tank

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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