What is the definition of a "Cesspool"?

A cesspool is defined as a pit that is designed to receive untreated sewage. The purpose of a cesspool is to allow sewage to seep into the surrounding soil, which is supposed to facilitate natural filtration and treatment through the soil layers. This method relies on the ground’s absorptive qualities, but it is important to understand that cesspools do not provide any treatment or purification of the sewage themselves; rather, they simply act as a holding area for waste. Over time, the accumulated waste can create sanitary issues, and they are often not used in modern sewage management due to environmental and health concerns. This distinction is critical in understanding the function and implications of cesspools in wastewater management practices.