bunion

noun

bun·​ion ˈbən-yən How to pronounce bunion (audio)
: an inflamed swelling of the small fluid-filled sac on the first joint of the big toe accompanied by enlargement and protrusion of the joint

Examples of bunion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Tummy tucks and bunion surgery In phase 3 clinical trials by the drugmaker, researchers looked at how well the drug worked after surgery. Kaitlin Sullivan, NBC News, 30 Jan. 2025 Basically: A lot of opportunities for our shoes to constrict, limiting motion in a way that can also lead to foot problems like weak muscles, bunions, and hammertoes. Cindy Kuzma, SELF, 21 Nov. 2024 The friction from the bunion may lead to inflammation called bursitis near the MTP joint, which can lead to additional pain at the base of the big toe, especially when walking.2 Bunions become more common with age, and up to a third of people over 65 have them. Ruth Jessen Hickman, Health, 17 Jan. 2025 Shead's friend baked a cake in the shape of a foot – bunion and all – and presented it to her for slicing. Khloe Quill, Fox News, 8 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for bunion

Word History

Etymology

probably alteration of bunny swelling

First Known Use

circa 1718, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bunion was circa 1718

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bunion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bunion. Accessed 3 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

bunion

noun
bun·​ion ˈbən-yən How to pronounce bunion (audio)
: an inflamed swelling on the first joint of the big toe

Medical Definition

bunion

noun
bun·​ion ˈbən-yən How to pronounce bunion (audio)
: an inflamed swelling of the small fluid-filled sac on the first joint of the big toe accompanied by enlargement and protrusion of the joint compare hallux valgus

More from Merriam-Webster on bunion

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!