Antiseptic Definition, Uses & Examples

Meaning 1：germ-killing (antiseptic)

antiseptic 🔊

/ˌæntiˈseptɪk/

adj.

Something that kills germs and stops infection, often used for cleaning cuts or surfaces.

Antiseptic liquid applied to scrape on knee with cotton swab

germ-killing 🔊

➕

/ˈdʒɜːrm ˌkɪlɪŋ/

adj.

A substance that destroys or inhibits the growth of microorganisms on living tissue, preventing infection.

📁 Category：Physical & Mental Health 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Greek anti- (against) + septikos (putrefying), via Latin antisepticus.

💡 Mnemonic

Think: 'Anti-septic' fights sepsis; imagine a bottle labeled 'ANTI-SEPTIC' protecting a wound.

📖 Example

The nurse applied an antiseptic solution to the small cut on my knee before putting on a bandage. 🔊 The nurse cleaned the cut on my knee with an antiseptic liquid and then covered it with a bandage.

🔗 Collocations

antiseptic cream – A cream that kills germs and prevents infection.

antiseptic wipe – A disposable cloth pre-moistened with an antiseptic solution.

antiseptic mouthwash – A liquid used to cleanse the mouth and reduce oral bacteria.

🔄 Synonyms

disinfectant (adj.) – Capable of destroying harmful microorganisms, typically used on non-living surfaces.

germicidal (adj.) – Acting to kill germs and microorganisms.

antibacterial (adj.) – Effective against bacteria.

🚫 Antonyms

septic (adj.) – Infected with bacteria, especially causing pus or decay.

contaminated (adj.) – Made impure by exposure to harmful substances or germs.

unsanitary (adj.) – Not clean enough to avoid disease or infection.

🌱 Derivatives

antiseptically (adv.) – In a way that prevents infection by killing germs.

antisepsis (n.) – The process of eliminating microorganisms that cause disease.

antiseptic (n.) – An antiseptic substance or preparation.

📖 Cultural Story

Coined in the 19th century by Joseph Lister to describe his carbolic acid treatment preventing surgical infections, revolutionizing medicine.