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

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

Other Word Forms

• antiseptically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of antiseptic¹

First recorded in 1745–55; anti- + septic

Example Sentences

He celebrated the wave of innovations that had enriched human existence—railroads, steamships, telegraphs, telephones, electric lights, anesthetics, antiseptics.

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When they visit St. Cloud’s and meet Dr. Larch, they are disconcerted by “an antiseptic smell, or something medicinal” in his office.

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Though the sunshine of free speech remains the best antiseptic against poison, Mr. Carlson is more interested in the spotlight than serious debate.

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While bemoaning the antiseptic, “look, don’t touch” aesthetic of modern cinema, Benedict did find time to tie it to the way we live, saying that the inhumanity of modern homes has crept into our bodies.

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But these once surefire hits have never been so limp and antiseptic.

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Related Words

• hygienic 
• sterile