leprosy

lep·ro·sy

noun \ˈle-prə-sē\

Definition of LEPROSY

1

: a chronic infectious disease caused by a mycobacterium (Mycobacterium leprae) affecting especially the skin and peripheral nerves and characterized by the formation of nodules or macules that enlarge and spread accompanied by loss of sensation with eventual paralysis, wasting of muscle, and production of deformities —called also Hansen's disease

2

: a morally or spiritually harmful influence

— lep·rot·ic \le-ˈprä-tik\ adjective

Origin of LEPROSY

Middle English lepruse, from leprous

First Known Use: 15th century