purulent

adjective

pu·​ru·​lent ˈpyu̇r-ə-lənt How to pronounce purulent (audio)
ˈpyu̇r-yə-
1
: containing, consisting of, or being pus
a purulent discharge
2
: accompanied by suppuration

Examples of purulent in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web But other words that also can return deficiencies related to bedsores include: decubitus, purulent and pus, as well as Stage III and Stage IV (phrases that describe the most serious and dangerous sores, but can also describe cancer progression). Ruth Talbot, ProPublica, 18 July 2023 Once freed, Spark Plug was immediately transferred to AHS’ trauma hospital where shelter veterinarians discovered a large laceration on her front left leg resulting in deep muscle exposure and a large amount of purulent debris. The Republic, The Arizona Republic, 7 July 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'purulent.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Latin purulentus, from pur-, pus pus

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of purulent was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near purulent

Cite this Entry

“Purulent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/purulent. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

Medical Definition

purulent

adjective
pu·​ru·​lent -lənt How to pronounce purulent (audio)
1
: containing, consisting of, or being pus
a purulent discharge
a purulent lesion
2
: accompanied by suppuration
purulent meningitis

More from Merriam-Webster on purulent

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