asepsis

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the state of being free from disease-causing microorganisms

   Strict asepsis is essential during the insertion of a surgical implant.

2. 2
   noun

   the practices used to prevent contamination by pathogenic microorganisms

   The clinic improved asepsis by sterilizing instruments and controlling contact with wounds.

Formed in modern medical Latin from Greek a-, 'not or without,' + sepsis, 'putrefaction,' from sepein, 'to make rotten.' Asepsis prevents microorganisms from entering a site, whereas antisepsis acts against them on living tissue.

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