pustule

noun

pus·​tule ˈpəs-(ˌ)chül How to pronounce pustule (audio)
-(ˌ)tyül,
-(ˌ)tül
1
: a small circumscribed elevation of the skin containing pus and having an inflamed base
2
: a small often distinctively colored elevation or spot resembling a blister or pimple

Examples of pustule in a Sentence

smallpox's characteristic pustules typically resulted in permanent scarring for survivors of the dreaded disease
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.
Folliculitis can, in turn, lead to red pimples and pustules—sort of like scalp acne. Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 26 Oct. 2024 Larger pimples that contain pus are called pustules. Ann Pietrangelo, Verywell Health, 1 Oct. 2024 Over the next 11 days, increasingly painful big blisters and pustules appeared all over his body, including the soles of his feet and the palms of his hands—regions that chickenpox rarely affects. Byjon Cohen, science.org, 16 Aug. 2024 These include blisters, redness, sensitivity to light, pigment spots, pustules, and skin lesions. Isabel Vasquez Rd Ldn, Health, 5 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for pustule 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin pustula; akin to Lithuanian pusti to blow, Greek physa breath

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Dictionary Entries Near pustule

Cite this Entry

“Pustule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pustule. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

pustule

noun
pus·​tule ˈpəs-chü(ə)l How to pronounce pustule (audio)
1
: a small elevation of the skin having an inflamed base and containing pus
2
: a small elevation resembling a pimple or blister

Medical Definition

pustule

noun
1
: a small circumscribed elevation of the skin containing pus and having an inflamed base
2
: a small often distinctively colored elevation or spot resembling a blister or pimple

More from Merriam-Webster on pustule

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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