septum
|sep-tum|
C1
/ˈsɛptəm/
dividing wall
Etymology
Etymology Information
'septum' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'saeptum', where 'saept-' meant 'enclosure' or 'fence'.
Historical Evolution
'septum' changed from Latin 'saeptum' into Medieval Latin 'septum' and eventually became the modern English word 'septum'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'enclosure or fence', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'partition or dividing wall' in anatomical and biological contexts.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a thin wall or partition dividing two cavities or spaces within an organ or structure (e.g., the nasal septum or the interventricular septum of the heart).
The doctor examined the patient's nasal septum for deviation.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/11/13 02:55