eczema

noun

ec·​ze·​ma ig-ˈzē-mə  ˈeg-zə-mə  ˈek-sə- 

: an inflammatory condition of the skin characterized by redness, itching, and oozing vesicular lesions which become scaly, crusted, or hardened

eczematous

ig-ˈze-mə-təs 

adjective

Examples of eczema in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The best way to minimize eczema itch is to address the inflammation driving the condition, the study authors say. — Rob Williams, EverydayHealth.com, 30 July 2026

Notably for this article, Watchmaker also shuts down the myth that people with rosacea, eczema or sensitive skin can’t use retinol. — Rachel Burchfield, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

Most skin types can tolerate spicules depending on concentration and formula, but people with rosacea, eczema or active acne should avoid them, along with anyone whose skin barrier is compromised. — Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 27 July 2026

Each waterproof, latex-free patch creates a protective barrier over the bite and is infused with centella asiatica to help calm sensitive and eczema-prone skin. — Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 21 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin, borrowed from Greek ékzema, from ekze-, stem of ekzéō, ekzeîn "to boil over, (of disease) break out" (from ek- ec- + zeîn "to boil, seethe") + -ma, resultative noun suffix — more at yeast entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1753, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

eczema

noun

ec·​ze·​ma ig-ˈzē-mə  ˈeg-zə-mə 

ˈek-sə-

: a skin disease marked by redness, itching, and scaly or crusty lesions

Medical Definition

eczema

noun

ec·​ze·​ma ig-ˈzē-mə  ˈeg-zə-mə  ˈek-sə- 

: an inflammatory condition of the skin characterized by redness, itching, and oozing vesicular lesions which become scaly, crusted, or hardened

eczematous

ig-ˈzem-ət-əs 

adjective