sepsis

American  

[sep-sis] / ˈsɛp sɪs /

noun

Pathology.

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

   dental sepsis; wound sepsis.

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sepsis British  

/ ˈsɛpsɪs /

noun

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

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sepsis Scientific  

/ sĕp′sĭs /

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.

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Etymology

Origin of sepsis

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

Example Sentences

Kim, 64, from Milton Keynes, lost all four limbs eight years ago after contracting sepsis from a urinary tract infection.

From BBC • May 7, 2026

And data analyses by ProPublica showed that sepsis rates and blood transfusions spiked among miscarrying women after the ban went into effect — an indicator of dangerous delays in care across the state.

From Salon • Apr. 20, 2026

Acute conditions, such as sepsis and cardiac arrest, account for more.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

Her parents thought it could be sepsis, but after being rushed back to hospital, a lumbar puncture confirmed she had MenB.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

The doctor told my mother that if I had remained in Africa another day or two, the infection would have spread through my body, causing sepsis.

From "Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina" by Michaela DePrince