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”

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

sepsis

Zadie's family were previously told by MSE that staff had not updated local sepsis guidance since 2017.

From BBC ● Oct. 20, 2026

After recovering from four bouts of sepsis this year, she discovered she was pregnant on the day she returned home from hospital.

From BBC ● Sep. 26, 2026

It can look a lot like freshers' flu but if it's not diagnosed, it can progress very quickly and lead to seizures, brain damage and sepsis.

From BBC ● Sep. 22, 2026

It is named after Martha Mills, who died aged 13 at King's College Hospital in London in 2021 after developing blood poisoning or sepsis.

From BBC ● Sep. 21, 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

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