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Definition of cesspool

cesspool

/ˈsɛs.puːl/
cess · pool
Plural:cesspools
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cesspool Lexical Profile

cesspool Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A filthy, corrupt, or morally degraded place, environment, or situation.

Example

"The investigative journalist exposed the unregulated financial agency as a cesspool of bribery and corporate fraud."

2

An underground container or covered pit used for the temporary collection and storage of liquid waste and sewage.

Example

"Before the town installed a modern municipal sewer system, every old farmhouse relied on a brick-lined cesspool in the back yard."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

cesium
cessation
cesspit
cesspool
cestrum
cevennes
ceviche

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 17th century as an alteration of forms like 'suspool' or 'cesperalle', possibly derived from dialectal 'soss' (meaning a puddle or filth) or French 'soupirail' (meaning a vent or cellar hole), combined with 'pool'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Cesspool. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/cesspool
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