eczema

noun

: an inflammatory condition of the skin characterized by redness, itching, and oozing vesicular lesions which become scaly, crusted, or hardened
eczematous adjective

Examples of eczema 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 clinical studies, probiotic supplementation improved eczema symptoms and reduced the frequency and severity of flare-ups. Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 12 May 2025 This creates darker patches where the eczema was active. Health, 11 May 2025 The plaintiffs said they were left with ongoing health problems, including seizures, asthma, eczema and vestibular dysfunction. CBS News, 9 May 2025 The two most common types are hives—raised welts that are itchy, red, and uncomfortable—and eczema, which is characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Angela Haupt, Time, 2 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for eczema

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of eczema was circa 1753

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Eczema.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eczema. Accessed 27 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

eczema

noun
ec·​ze·​ma ig-ˈzē-mə How to pronounce eczema (audio) ˈeg-zə-mə How to pronounce eczema (audio)
ˈek-sə-
: a skin disease marked by redness, itching, and scaly or crusty lesions

Medical Definition

eczema

noun
: an inflammatory condition of the skin characterized by redness, itching, and oozing vesicular lesions which become scaly, crusted, or hardened
eczematous adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on eczema

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