herpes simplex

[ hur-peez sim-pleks ]

noun

1. either of two herpes diseases caused by a herpesvirus that infects humans and some other animals and produces small, transient blisters on the skin or mucous membranes, one type of virus herpes simplex virus type 1, or HSV-1 usually associated with oral herpes but also causing genital herpes and the other herpes simplex virus type 2, or HSV-2 usually causing genital herpes.

herpes simplex

/ ˈsɪmplɛks /

noun

1. an acute viral disease characterized by formation of clusters of watery blisters, esp on the margins of the lips and nostrils or on the genitals. It can be sexually transmitted and may recur fitfully

Word History and Origins

Origin of herpes simplex¹

First recorded in 1905–10; from New Latin: literally, “simple herpes”

Word History and Origins

Origin of herpes simplex¹

New Latin: simple herpes

Example Sentences

It’s been associated with infections such as the herpes simplex virus and Epstein-Barr virus, as well as Lyme disease and autoimmune disorders.

From Seattle Times

The herpes simplex virus is very common and up to 80 percent of Swedish adults may be infected.

From Science Daily

The viruses—usually benign varieties such as the herpes simplex viruses and adenoviruses that are often modified to make them safer and more potent—can reproduce in tumor cells but not in healthy cells.

From Science Magazine

They didn’t have herpes simplex infection, a dangerous but treatable cause of encephalitis, or HIV, which can cause similar symptoms.

From Science Magazine

Deaths caused by HSV-1 - herpes simplex 1 - are almost unheard of in healthy people.

From BBC

Related Words

• acquired immune deficiency syndrome
• AIDS
• gonorrhea
• herpes
• syphilis
• the clap
• venereal disease