aseptic
UK: eɪˈsɛptɪk | US: eɪˈsɛptɪk
adj. free from contamination by harmful microorganisms; sterile.
adj. lacking vitality or emotion; clinical.
aseptic = a<without> + sept<decay> + ic<adjective suffix>
- a (prefix): From Greek a-, meaning "without" or "not."
- sept (root): From Greek sēptos (rotten, decayed), related to sēpein (to make rotten).
- ic (suffix): From Latin -icus, forming adjectives meaning "pertaining to."
Etymology Origin:
The word aseptic originates from the Greek a- (without) + sēptos (decay), reflecting its medical use to describe environments or procedures "without decay-causing microbes." The suffix -ic standardizes it as an adjective. The term evolved in the 19th century with advancements in germ theory, emphasizing sterility to prevent infection.
Surgeons must maintain an aseptic environment during operations.
The laboratory uses aseptic techniques to avoid contamination.
Her writing style was criticized as overly aseptic, lacking emotional depth.
Aseptic packaging ensures milk remains fresh without refrigeration.
The wound was cleaned and dressed in an aseptic manner.