Sepsis
/ˈsɛp.sɪs/noun
A life-threatening condition caused by the body's response to infection.
Did you know?The term 'sepsis' derives from ancient Greek, where it was linked to the process of decaying flesh, highlighting its association with life and death.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
σέψις (sēpsis)
“A state of decay or rotting, particularly in relation to dead bodies.”
Late Latin
Latin
sepsis
“The condition of decay or putrefaction.”
Middle English
Middle English
sepsys
“The condition associated with infection and decay.”
Modern English
English
sepsis
“A serious medical condition resulting from the body's extreme response to infection.”
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