septic tank

[sep-tik tangk]

noun

1. a tank, often underground, in which organic sewage is decomposed and purified by anaerobic bacteria.

septic tank

noun

1. a tank, usually below ground, for containing sewage to be decomposed by anaerobic bacteria

Word History and Origins

Origin of septic tank¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

Her bathroom became a toilet she fastened on top of her septic tank outside and exposed for her neighbors to see — had any of them come back.

From Los Angeles Times

Nearly three months later, Agnes's body was discovered in a septic tank near the hotel.

From BBC

The science shows the pollution problem in Lough Neagh comes largely from agriculture, with some from wastewater processing, septic tank seepage and industrial pollution around the shores.

From BBC

She’s renovating the property to bring it up to seismic and ADA standards, harden it against wildfires and install a septic tank for a guest house.

From Los Angeles Times

Even before the fire, few septic tanks and leach fields probably met current standards, which require substantially enhanced removal of pathogens.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• cesspool 
• sewer