sepsis

[sep-sis]

noun

Pathology.

1. local or generalized invasion of the body by pathogenic microorganisms or their toxins.

   dental sepsis; wound sepsis.

sepsis

/ ˈsɛpsɪs /

noun

1. the presence of pus-forming bacteria in the body

sepsis

1. A severe infection caused by pathogenic organisms, especially bacteria, in the blood or tissues. If untreated, a localized infection, as in the respiratory or urinary tracts, can lead to infection in the bloodstream and widespread inflammation, characterized initially by fever, chills, and other symptoms and later by septic shock.

Word History and Origins

Origin of sepsis¹

First recorded in 1855–60; from Greek sêpsis “decay”; compare sḗpein “to make rotten”

Word History and Origins

Origin of sepsis¹

C19: via New Latin from Greek sēpsis a rotting; related to Greek sēpein to cause to decay