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

Related Articles After dealing with eczema for most of her life, Jagger set out with the goal of formulating skin care products for sensitive skin. —Ryma Chikhoune, WWD, 12 July 2024

Its emollients can also benefit those struggling with eczema, psoriasis, or ichthyosis. —Larry Stansbury, Essence, 10 July 2024

Chlorine rash is an itchy, irritant dermatitis that lives in the same family as eczema, says Dr. David Pearson, MD, a dermatologist with M Health Fairview and the University of Minnesota Medical School. —Caroline C. Boyle, USA TODAY, 20 June 2024

Prescription Medications Your provider may prescribe a topical cream or oral medication to treat conditions like psoriasis and eczema. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 5 July 2024

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