sunburn

¹sun·burn

verb \-ˌbərn\

sun·burned\-ˌbərnd\ or sun·burnt\-ˌbərnt\sun·burn·ing

Definition of SUNBURN

transitive verb

: to burn or discolor by the sun

intransitive verb

: to become sunburned

Origin of SUNBURN

back-formation from sunburned, from sun + burned

First Known Use: 1530

Rhymes with SUNBURN

adjourn, astern, attorn, casern, concern, discern, downturn, epergne, eterne, extern, heartburn, Hepburn, intern, in turn, inurn, kick turn, lucerne, Lucerne, nocturn, nocturne, outturn, return, sauternes, secern, sojourn, star turn, stem turn, step turn, unlearn, upturn, U-turn, windburn

²sunburn

noun

Definition of SUNBURN

: inflammation of the skin caused by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation especially from sunlight

Examples of SUNBURN

1. He has a bad sunburn.
2. Use sunscreen to prevent sunburn.

First Known Use of SUNBURN

1652

sunburn

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Acute skin inflammation caused by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or other sources. More common and severe in light-skinned people, it ranges from mild redness and tenderness to intense pain, edema, and blistering, sometimes with shock, fever, and nausea. The process begins after 15 minutes in the sun, but redness starts 6–12 hours later and peaks within a day. Pigment cells in the skin increase melanin production (“tan”). Cold compresses and analgesics reduce pain. Limiting sun exposure, using sunscreen, and wearing protective clothing can prevent severe sunburn. Long-term sun exposure can eventually cause skin cancer, as well as skin wrinkling and thickening.