septum

noun

sep·​tum ˈsep-təm 

plural septa ˈsep-tə 

: a dividing wall or membrane especially between bodily spaces or masses of soft tissue compare dissepiment

Examples of septum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Nasal problems: Narrow nasal airways or a deviated septum can increase the risk of sleep apnea, mouth breathing, and subsequent dry mouth.8 4. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 6 June 2025

This danger could be especially serious for people dealing with any number of common respiratory troubles, including sinonasal disease, enlarged tonsils, hay fever, chronic rhinitis, or a deviated septum. —Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 21 May 2025

Fans have been enjoying showcasing how the new trailers have unlocked new fears including those who removed their septum rings following the first trailer and those reacting to glass falling into ice, lawnmowers, trampolines, revolving doors and glass floors. —Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 27 Mar. 2025

Structural abnormalities: Existing nasal polyps or a deviated septum can contribute to sinus problems and increase the risk. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 5 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin saeptum enclosure, fence, wall, from saepire to fence in, from saepes fence, hedge

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

septum

noun

sep·​tum ˈsep-təm 

plural septa -tə 

: a dividing wall or membrane especially between bodily spaces or masses of soft tissue

Medical Definition

septum

noun

sep·​tum ˈsep-təm 

plural septa -tə 

: a dividing wall or membrane especially between bodily spaces or masses of soft tissue: as

a

: nasal septum

b

: crural septum