cowpox

noun

cow·​pox ˈkau̇-ˌpäks How to pronounce cowpox (audio)
: a mild eruptive disease of the cow that is caused by a poxvirus (Orthopoxvirus cowpox) and that when communicated to humans protects against smallpox

Examples of cowpox 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.
In 1796, English physician Edward Jenner successfully inoculated 8-year-old James Phipps against smallpox by using cowpox matter. Chicago Tribune, 14 May 2026 Convinced by anecdotes of farmworkers who had contracted cowpox and not smallpox, Edward Jenner hypothesized the cowpox protected them. USA Today, 6 May 2026 Biologists celebrate Edward Jenner’s cowpox vaccination. Bill Conerly, Forbes.com, 28 Apr. 2026 In 1796, English physician Edward Jenner successfully inoculated 8-year-old James Phipps against smallpox by using cowpox matter. ABC News, 27 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cowpox

Word History

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cowpox was in 1798

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Cite this Entry

“Cowpox.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cowpox. Accessed 20 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

cowpox

noun
cow·​pox ˈkau̇-ˌpäks How to pronounce cowpox (audio)
: a mild disease of the cow that is caused by a virus and that when passed on to human beings produces a temporary rash and protects against smallpox

Medical Definition

cowpox

noun
cow·​pox ˈkau̇-ˌpäks How to pronounce cowpox (audio)
: a mild eruptive disease of the cow that is caused by a poxvirus (Orthopoxvirus cowpox) and that when communicated to humans protects against smallpox

called also variola vaccinia

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