zoster

noun

zos·​ter ˈzä-stər How to pronounce zoster (audio)

Examples of zoster 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.
The varicella-zoster virus causes not just the itchy chickenpox rash but sometimes systemic infections, pneumonia and brain swelling. Andrea Tamayo, Scientific American, 18 Sep. 2025 It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which stays in one’s body for the rest of their life after getting chickenpox and may activate years down the line as shingles. Emlyn Travis, Entertainment Weekly, 17 Sep. 2025 Those who did get vaccinated received what’s known as a live zoster vaccine, an older option that contains a weakened form of the varicella zoster virus that causes shingles. Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 8 May 2025 Shingles is a rash brought on by the varicella zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. Mark Z. Barabak, Los Angeles Times, 30 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for zoster

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin zōstēr, borrowed from Greek zōstḗr "belt, girdle, shingles," from zōs-, base of zṓnnȳmi, aorist ézōsa "(I) gird(ed)" + -tēr, suffix of instruments — more at zone entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1706, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of zoster was circa 1706

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Cite this Entry

“Zoster.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/zoster. Accessed 3 Oct. 2025.

Medical Definition

zoster

noun
zos·​ter ˈzäs-tər How to pronounce zoster (audio)

More from Merriam-Webster on zoster

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