Cesspool

A cesspool is a covered, underground container for collecting and temporarily storing sewage and wastewater. Typically found where a public sewer system isn't available, it allows solid waste to settle while liquid waste seeps into the surrounding soil. The system is prone to overflowing if poorly maintained or overused. A cesspool presents a sanitation risk if it leaks or overflows, contaminating the surrounding environment and potentially spreading disease. Regular inspection and pumping are crucial for its proper functioning. The term can be used figuratively to describe a place or situation characterized by moral or social degradation.

Cesspool meaning with examples

• The old house, lacking modern plumbing, relied on a cesspool that hadn't been emptied in years, creating a foul stench and potential health hazard.
• The remote cabin's wastewater was managed by a basic cesspool, requiring cautious water usage to prevent it from reaching capacity and backing up.
• The village's outdated infrastructure meant many homes still depended on cesspools for waste disposal, a major concern for public health.
• During the heavy rains, the poorly constructed cesspool in the backyard overflowed, contaminating the garden and necessitating urgent cleaning.
• The environmental impact study highlighted the risks associated with the aging cesspool system in the rural community, revealing concerns for groundwater pollution.