Word
sept
US/ˈsɛpt/
UK/sˈɛpt/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a group of families who share the same ancestor, especially in Irish history.
n. a branch of a clan or a group of families claiming descent from a common progenitor, used primarily in an Irish or Scottish historical context.
Examples
“The ancient sept controlled most of the land in this valley.”
“Historians believe this specific sept originated from a small village in the west of Ireland during the medieval period.”
“The political stability of the region relied on a complex network of alliances between the dominant septs, each maintaining its own territory and legal customs.”
Examples
simple
“The ancient sept controlled most of the land in this valley.”
contextual
“Historians believe this specific sept originated from a small village in the west of Ireland during the medieval period.”
complex
“The political stability of the region relied on a complex network of alliances between the dominant septs, each maintaining its own territory and legal customs.”
Usage
Often used in historical or genealogical writing.
Teaching tip
This is a very specific term for history or genealogy; students should use 'clan' or 'family branch' in general conversation.
Real-World Examples
“The House of Commons isn’t scheduled to sit until Sept 21.” “The Prime Minister said starting Sept.8, there would be new dollar for dollar tariff supplied to American goods.” Synonyms
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- C2 · Proficiency
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/sept