as in blister
a small, inflamed swelling of the skin the reddish, itchy papules that are characteristic of the rash

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of papule In individuals with a lighter skin tone, papules can appear red, but those with a darker skin tone may exhibit them in shades of brown, purple, or gray.5 Your healthcare provider may recommend a similar treatment, such as a topical steroid cream, for papules.6 3. Emmanuella Ogbonna, Health, 9 May 2025 May Be Useful in Acne Treatment People with acne often have lowered serum zinc levels, and both oral and topical zinc have been found to reduce the prevalence of inflammatory papules, both when used as monotherapy and as a supplemental therapy.5 4. Jamie Johnson, Verywell Health, 1 May 2025 Some research shows that people with acne generally have lower levels of zinc in their blood and that taking supplemental zinc may reduce inflammatory papules. Ann Pietrangelo, Verywell Health, 1 Oct. 2024 These often red, inflamed bumps are also called papules. Ann Pietrangelo, Verywell Health, 1 Oct. 2024 This form of rosacea is often mistaken for acne and involves bumps that can be papules or pustules.1 A small clinical trial of 50 people showed that a 20 mg dose taken twice a day can mostly or completely clear skin lesions within four weeks. Megan Nunn, Verywell Health, 13 Sep. 2024 Look for small blackheads and red bumps (papules) on your child's skin. Angela Palmer Updated, Verywell Health, 16 Apr. 2024 More rare side effects include skin infection, abrasions, or papules at the injection site. Loren Savini, Allure, 13 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
Recent Examples of Synonyms for papule
Noun
  • Tayma has severe recessive dystrophic EB, one of the most severe forms of Epidermolysis Bullosa, a genetic disorder that causes Tayma's skin to blister and scar.
    Cara Lynn Shultz, People.com, 12 June 2025
  • Cellulitis can cause a painful, red, tender, swollen rash that may blister and scab over.
    Korin Miller, SELF, 11 June 2025
Noun
  • Later in the growing season, rust pustules on the underside of the leaf can be orange and black.
    Rita Perwich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 June 2025
  • Bites from these ants leave a painful sting that produces a red pustule that itches and burns, according to Texas Parks and Wildlife.
    Brayden Garcia, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 June 2025
Noun
  • Pimple patches aren’t very effective at treating deeper, cystic pimples or blackheads.
    Caroline C. Boyle, USA Today, 20 June 2025
  • These types of pimples or bumps are also often a sign of something more severe going on and typically require medical grade care to treat.
    Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 12 June 2025
Noun
  • Season with a tablespoon of salt and bring the water to a boil.
    Gretchen McKay, Boston Herald, 18 June 2025
  • Before consuming tap water, residents are encouraged to bring the water to a boil, according to the press release.
    Caroline Zimmerman, Kansas City Star, 16 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Papule.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/papule. Accessed 3 Jul. 2025.

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