septum

[ sep-tuhm ]

noun

, Biology.

, plural sep·ta [sep, -t, uh].

1. a dividing wall, membrane, or the like, in a plant or animal structure; dissepiment.

septum

/ ˈsɛptəm /

noun

1. biology anatomy a dividing partition between two tissues or cavities
2. a dividing partition or membrane between two cavities in a mechanical device

septum

/ sĕp′təm /

, Plural septa

1. A thin wall or membrane that separates two parts or structures in an organism. Septae separate the chambers of the heart and subdivide the hyphae of some fungi.

Word History and Origins

Origin of septum¹

1710–20; < Latin sēptum, variant of saeptum enclosure, noun use of neuter of saeptus (past participle of saepīre to fence); akin to saepēs hedge, fence

Word History and Origins

Origin of septum¹

C18: from Latin saeptum wall, from saepīre to enclose; related to Latin saepēs a fence

Example Sentences

Doctors say the fall caused a problem with her nasal septum - the bone and cartilage which separates the nostrils.

From BBC

A crowd sporting green hair, skull tattoos and gigantic septum piercings blends with puffer vests, sweaters and responsible ear plugs.

From Los Angeles Times

Bolsonaro said he will undergo procedures to correct a hiatus hernia and a deviated septum.

From Reuters

An anatomical issue like a deviated septum, or allergies, sinusitis or chronic congestion, may explain any difficulty breathing through your nose.

From Seattle Times

Another recognition: “Cab driver, pointer finger in a pot of Tiger Balm/dabbing on the temples and nasal septum for that sting of wakefulness,/cutting through the edgeless fog of wage labor.”

From New York Times