Definition of "antiseptic" []

• Of, relating to, or producing antisepsis. (adjective)
• Capable of preventing infection by inhibiting the growth of microorganisms. (adjective)
• Thoroughly clean; aseptic. See Synonyms at clean. (adjective)
• Of or associated with the use of antiseptics. (adjective)
• Devoid of enlivening or enriching qualities: "This is . . . not at all lighthearted or amiable music. In fact, the tone is unremittingly sober and antiseptic” ( Donal Henahan). (adjective)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "This, then, is what Tom Friedman — in antiseptic language designed to leave elite consciences undisturbed — would like to portray as successful American policy: Using the Iraqi people as bait to attract jihadists from around the region and distract them from attacking the American homeland."
• "The best antiseptic is sunshine and the more the issue is discussed, better solutions begin presenting themselves."
• "I actually love these juices in antiseptic packages, lychee, black currant, passionfruit."