psoriasis

noun

pso·​ri·​a·​sis sə-ˈrī-ə-səs 

: a chronic skin disease characterized by circumscribed red patches covered with white scales

psoriatic

ˌsȯr-ē-ˈa-tik 

adjective or noun

Examples of psoriasis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These fatty acids also help improve the symptoms of psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema, such as cracked, scaly, and dry skin. —Ayesha Gulzar, Verywell Health, 10 Mar. 2026

Some research suggests omega-3s may also be beneficial for psoriasis, rosacea, and atopic dermatitis, among other conditions, though the evidence is mixed. —Caroline Tien, SELF, 9 Mar. 2026

Anyone on the Internet can tell you there’s something new and terrifying to learn about our bodies everyday (Nail psoriasis! —Elizabeth Gulino, Allure, 6 Mar. 2026

The company is known for its medication Humira, which is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and other conditions, as well as the drugs Skyrizi, which treats plaque psoriasis, and Rinvoq for rheumatoid arthritis. —Lisa Schencker, Chicago Tribune, 23 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek psōriasis, from psōrian to have the itch, from psōra itch; akin to Greek psēn to rub

First Known Use

circa 1684, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for psoriasis

• archdiocese
• amebiasis
• candidiasis
• filariasis
• leishmaniasis
• mydriasis
• pityriasis
• cholelithiasis
• elephantiasis
• nephrolithiasis
• schistosomiasis
• urolithiasis

Kids Definition

psoriasis

noun

pso·​ri·​a·​sis sə-ˈrī-ə-səs 

: a skin disease characterized by red patches often covered with white scales

Medical Definition

psoriasis

noun

pso·​ri·​a·​sis sə-ˈrī-ə-səs 

plural psoriases -ˌsēz 

: a chronic skin disease characterized by circumscribed red patches covered with white scales