Septicism
/sɛpˈtɪsɪzəm/noun
The condition of being septic, especially infection or systemic illness caused by putrefactive microorganisms.
Did you know?Its ancient Greek ancestor described putrefaction itself, long before doctors understood that microorganisms could spread through the bloodstream.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
σῆψις (sēpsis)
“Putrefaction, decay, or the process of rotting”
Ancient Greek
Greek
σηπτικός (sēptikos)
“Putrefactive; causing decay”
Late Antiquity
Latin
septicus
“Putrefactive or associated with bodily decay”
17th Century
French
septique
“Septic; producing or relating to putrefaction”
19th Century
English
septic
“Characterized by infection or putrefaction”
19th–20th Century
English
septicism
“The state or condition of being septic”
Explore more surprising origins