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

Coconut oil may help address common skin issues like dry skin, eczema, and minor cuts and abrasions. —Sherri Gordon, Health, 28 Aug. 2025

The odor of lice wounds and eczema ooze had probably kept her away. —Tao Lin, Harpers Magazine, 20 Aug. 2025

Those with scalp eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis should check with a dermatologist before using formulas with strong stimulants. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 7 Aug. 2025

Hot showers or baths can dry out the skin and worsen conditions like eczema (atopic dermatitis).6 Some studies suggest cold water doesn't impact the skin barrier in the same way. —Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 9 July 2025

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