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

In clinical trials, omega-3 supplements were effective in managing eczema and psoriasis symptoms, such as itching and scaling. —Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 8 Apr. 2026

Probiotic foods may ease symptoms of conditions like eczema, ulcerative colitis, and obesity. —Lindsey Desoto, Health, 8 Apr. 2026

In one case, a California prison guard with spinal problems also claimed other ailments, including toenail fungus and eczema, as work-disabling conditions. —Tony Saavedra, Oc Register, 4 Apr. 2026

More common culprits include a high-salt diet, eczema, allergies and sleep position. —Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 1 Apr. 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