papule

noun

ˈpa-(ˌ)pyül How to pronounce papule (audio)
Definition of papulenext
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 More papules emerge as blisters burst, prolonging the torment. — Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 24 Apr. 2026 In fact, one of the most common triggers of rosacea, which is characterized by flushing, swelling, spider veins, papules, and pustules, is exposure to sunlight. — Sherri Gordon, Health, 15 Sep. 2025 Typically appears as a cluster of small red bumps or papules and can be itchy. — Leslie Baumann, Miami Herald, 14 Aug. 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
Recent Examples of Synonyms for papule
  1. blister
  2. pustule
  3. pimple
  4. boil
Noun
  • Medications expire, blister packets get used and never replaced, and adhesive bandages lose their stickiness over time.
    — Annita Katee, Travel + Leisure, 22 Aug. 2026
  • Cabrera’s return was short-lived, as the right-hander is once again dealing with a blister issue on top of more ineffectiveness.
    — Jayson Stark, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
Definition of blister
Noun
  • This causes small but often painful red pustules that cluster at the places where the hairstyle is pulling the tightest.
    — Ayren Jackson-Cannady, Allure, 20 Aug. 2026
  • In animals, the bacterium causes pustules and lesions, predominantly in cattle, sheep, and horses.
    — Helen Branswell, STAT, 11 May 2026
Definition of pustule
Noun
  • The biggest overnight mistakes include sleeping in makeup, skipping moisturizer, over-exfoliating, using SPF as a night cream and picking at pimples in bed.
    — Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 17 Aug. 2026
  • Blind pimple that never breaks through the skin but causes undue chaos below?
    — Kiana Murden, Vogue, 17 Aug. 2026
Definition of pimple
Noun
  • Since its recent lows, CrowdStrike shares have more than doubled to all-time highs earlier this month before coming off the boil.
    — Zev Fima, CNBC, 25 Aug. 2026
  • When the rice has been brought to a boil, reduce the heat to very low and cover the pot tightly.
    — Durrie Bouscaren, NPR, 20 Aug. 2026
Definition of boil

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Cite this Entry

“Papule.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/papule. Accessed 29 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on papule

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about papule

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