antiseptic

[ an-tuh-sep-tik ]

adjective

1. pertaining to or affecting antisepsis.
2. free from or cleaned of germs and other microorganisms.
3. exceptionally clean or neat.
4. free of contamination or pollution.

noun

1. an antiseptic agent.

antiseptic

/ ˌæntɪˈsɛptɪk /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or effecting antisepsis
2. entirely free from contamination
3. informal.
   lacking spirit or excitement; clinical

noun

1. an antiseptic agent or substance

antiseptic

/ ăn′tĭ-sĕp′tĭk /

1. A substance that inhibits the proliferation of infectious microorganisms.

Derived Forms

• ˌantiˈseptically, adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of antiseptic¹

First recorded in 1745–55; anti- + septic

Example Sentences

A long-silent voice from a distant past — eerie and reverberating — awakens in the climate-controlled, antiseptic chambers of a Paris museum.

From Los Angeles Times

We know that fighting epidemics requires clean water, antiseptic materials, and vaccinations.

From Slate

Hochman sat in front of an antiseptic white background, well-lit in a pressed dark suit and close-trimmed coif.

From Los Angeles Times

I file all this under “well-intentioned and legally expedient,” but it was too antiseptic to satiate a growing need for collective frameworks to make sense and seek purpose in an increasingly complicated world.

From Slate

Beyond the sparsely appointed lobby is a warren of fluorescent-lighted hallways and antiseptic rooms that bring to mind a high school chemistry class.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• hygienic
• sterile