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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 Typically appears as a cluster of small red bumps or papules and can be itchy. Leslie Baumann, Miami Herald, 14 Aug. 2025 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
Recent Examples of Synonyms for papule
Noun
  • Genesis was found with massive blisters and burns on her face and across her body, police allege, according to Fox 10.
    Toria Sheffield, People.com, 16 Aug. 2025
  • She’s never had an issue with her pair, like blisters, chafing, or any frustrating break-in period.
    Sara Coughlin, SELF, 13 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • Their venom, similar to a bee’s or wasp’s, results in a painful, itchy pustule or blister on the skin.
    Gareth McGrath, USA Today, 28 June 2025
  • Folliculitis refers to the bacterial or fungal infection of the hair follicle that can lead to redness or pustules centered around the hair follicle.
    Audrey Noble, Vogue, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • Alisha Monaco, 32, sits in urgent care due to a pimple.
    Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Aug. 2025
  • The Mighty Patch Original Patch This is the only product that actually makes my pimple disappear overnight.
    Melony Forcier, People.com, 17 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • Bring four cups of water to a boil and remove from the stove or microwave.
    Jordan Green, Nashville Tennessean, 21 Aug. 2025
  • Bring to a boil, and cook, stirring gently, for about 8 to 10 minutes, until the cauliflower is just tender.
    Stephanie Ganz, Southern Living, 17 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Papule.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/papule. Accessed 29 Aug. 2025.

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