Antiseptic

Origin

- + septic

Full definition of antiseptic

Adjective

1. Of, or relating to antisepsis, or the use of antiseptics.
2. Capable of preventing microbial infection.
3. Very clean; aseptic.
4. Free of unpleasantness; sanitized or bowdlerized.
• 2001, John Allen, A Touch of UncertaintyForget all those Christmas cards with their ideal scenarios and antiseptic smiles. Stables are filthy and they stink...

Noun

1. Any substance that inhibits the growth and reproduction of microorganisms. Generally includes only those that are used on living objects (as opposed to disinfectants) and aren't transported by the lymphatic system to destroy bacteria in the body (as opposed to antibiotics).

Anagrams

• psittacine