sepsis

Definition

A serious medical condition in which the whole body is inflamed, causing injury to its own tissues and organs as a response to infection.

Etymology

coined by Hippocrates From Ancient Greek σῆψις (sêpsis, “putrefaction”), from σήπειν (sḗpein, “to make rotten”), from σήψ (sḗps, “a kind of lizard; also a kind of serpent whose bite was alleged to cause putrefaction”).

Example Sentences

• "Imagine the sepsis of helpless loathing [Jimmy Connors] must have inspired in his opponents during his "great runs" at the US Open."

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