pustule

noun

pus·​tule ˈpəs-(ˌ)chül How to pronounce pustule (audio)
-(ˌ)tyül,
-(ˌ)tül
1
: a small circumscribed elevation of the skin containing pus and having an inflamed base
2
: a small often distinctively colored elevation or spot resembling a blister or pimple

Examples of pustule in a Sentence

smallpox's characteristic pustules typically resulted in permanent scarring for survivors of the dreaded disease
Recent Examples on the Web The pustules are typically round and hard to the touch. Julia Landwehr, Health, 21 June 2023 The bites may at first show up as small, red, itchy welts, but will usually develop a little pustule or blister with a pinprick of blood visible) in a day or so. Stephen C. George, Discover Magazine, 18 Sep. 2023 Pimples, also called whiteheads, pustules or papules, are small tender bumps found on the areas of the body where the most oil glands are present, such as on one's face, back, shoulders, and neck. Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 12 Aug. 2023 If the bite mark exhibits other signs of infection, like extreme swelling, pustules, blistering, or anything else abnormal, seek medical treatment immediately. Katie Hill, Outdoor Life, 12 July 2023 At some point, those pustules will go through umbilication, where their dome shape will become depressed in the middle. Julia Landwehr, Health, 21 June 2023 Additionally, fire ant bites can cause itching, burning, and pain.6 Note: Though the pustules are itchy, try to avoid scratching them. Maggie O'Neill, Health, 28 May 2023 Cut out leaves with rust pustules rather than pulling them off as the latter action disperses the spores onto other leaves, into the air and onto the soil. Rita Perwich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 May 2023 Inflation is swelling like a pustule. Anthony Lane, The New Yorker, 10 Sep. 2022 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'pustule.' 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

Middle English, from Latin pustula; akin to Lithuanian pusti to blow, Greek physa breath

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pustule was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near pustule

Cite this Entry

“Pustule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pustule. Accessed 8 Dec. 2023.

Kids Definition

pustule

noun
pus·​tule ˈpəs-chü(ə)l How to pronounce pustule (audio)
1
: a small elevation of the skin having an inflamed base and containing pus
2
: a small elevation resembling a pimple or blister

Medical Definition

pustule

noun
1
: a small circumscribed elevation of the skin containing pus and having an inflamed base
2
: a small often distinctively colored elevation or spot resembling a blister or pimple

More from Merriam-Webster on pustule

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