bubo

noun

bu·​bo ˈbyü-(ˌ)bō How to pronounce bubo (audio) ˈbü- How to pronounce bubo (audio)
plural buboes
: an inflammatory swelling of a lymph gland especially in the groin
bubonic
byü-ˈbä-nik How to pronounce bubo (audio)
bü-
adjective

Examples of bubo in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Bubonic plague still exists today, and symptoms include painful, swollen lymph nodes, called buboes, in the groin, armpit or neck areas, as well as fever, chills and coughing. — Katie Hunt, CNN, 10 July 2024 Usually, patients will have blood and other samples, such as sputum or pus, taken from a bubo. — Adela Suliman, Washington Post, 9 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

Medieval Latin bubon-, bubo, from Greek boubōn

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bubo was in the 14th century

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“Bubo.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bubo. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

bubo

noun
bu·​bo ˈb(y)ü-bō How to pronounce bubo (audio)
plural buboes
: an inflamed swelling of a lymph node especially in the groin
bubonic
b(y)ü-ˈbän-ik How to pronounce bubo (audio)
adjective

Medical Definition

bubo

noun
bu·​bo ˈb(y)ü-(ˌ)bō How to pronounce bubo (audio)
plural buboes
: an inflammatory swelling of a lymph node especially in the groin
bubonic
b(y)ü-ˈbän-ik How to pronounce bubo (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on bubo

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about bubo

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