antiseptic

[ an-tuh-sep-tik ]

adjective

1. pertaining to or affecting antisepsis.
2. free from or cleaned of germs and other microorganisms.
3. exceptionally clean or neat.
4. free of contamination or pollution.

noun

1. an antiseptic agent.

antiseptic

/ ˌæntɪˈsɛptɪk /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or effecting antisepsis
2. entirely free from contamination
3. informal.
   lacking spirit or excitement; clinical

noun

1. an antiseptic agent or substance

antiseptic

/ ăn′tĭ-sĕp′tĭk /

1. A substance that inhibits the proliferation of infectious microorganisms.

Derived Forms

• ˌantiˈseptically, adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of antiseptic¹

First recorded in 1745–55; anti- + septic

Example Sentences

The petroleum industry has depicted fracking as a few antiseptic drills dug on peaceful farmland.

From The Daily Beast

Getting off the elevator at the fourth floor, he thumped across the antiseptic hallway.

From The Daily Beast

And I have to have whiskey because alcohol is both an antiseptic and an anesthetic.

From The Daily Beast

Before antibiotics, most newborn eyes were treated with an antiseptic, and Barnes pushed Argyrol as the cure of choice.

From The Daily Beast

How did that survive the vetting at this often timid and antiseptic White House?

From The Daily Beast

He used an antiseptic solution which Bert had provided, for Bert was still buying my milk.

From Project Gutenberg

We simply fill the box with gas at ordinary temperature, taking advantage only of its antiseptic properties.

From Project Gutenberg

The introduction of zinc oxid, aromatic and antiseptic oils and animal fat was a new feature.

From Project Gutenberg

Hexamethylenamin is a valuable so-called urinary antiseptic—​probably one of the best we have.

From Project Gutenberg

Quickly render the whole mouth and throat thoroughly antiseptic.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• hygienic
• sterile