pimple

noun

pim·​ple ˈpim-pəl How to pronounce pimple (audio)
1
: a small inflamed elevation of the skin : papule
especially : pustule
2
: a swelling or protuberance like a pimple
pimpled adjective
pimply adjective

Examples of pimple in a Sentence

a painful pimple on his back
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.
The brand gained traction with its cult-fave Mighty Patch, a hydrocolloid pimple patch, but has since expanded its offerings to much, much more. Jennifer Chan, StyleCaster, 30 Apr. 2025 For some time now, Gen Z has embraced pimple patches as a secondary accessory. Tiana Randall, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025 Never try to pop a baby’s pimples, and avoid any harsh soaps or products. Carrie Madormo, Rn, Mph, Verywell Health, 23 Jan. 2025 Additionally, these strips can also act as a pimple patch for your nose, treating whiteheads and blackheads simultaneously. Daley Quinn, Glamour, 15 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pimple

Word History

Etymology

Middle English pymple; akin to Old English piplian to break out in pimples, and probably to English pimp — more at pimp entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pimple.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pimple. Accessed 11 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

pimple

noun
pim·​ple ˈpim-pəl How to pronounce pimple (audio)
: a small swelling of the skin often containing pus : pustule
pimpled adjective
pimply adjective

Medical Definition

pimple

noun
pim·​ple ˈpim-pəl How to pronounce pimple (audio)
1
: a small inflamed elevation of the skin : papule
especially : pustule
2
: a swelling or protuberance like a pimple
pimpled adjective
pimply adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on pimple

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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