pustule

[ puhs-chool ]

noun

1. Pathology. a small elevation of the skin containing pus.
2. any pimplelike or blisterlike swelling or elevation.

pustule

/ ˈpʌstjʊlə; ˈpʌstjuːl /

noun

1. a small inflamed elevated area of skin containing pus
2. any small distinct spot resembling a pimple or blister

pustule

/ pŭs′cho̅o̅l /

1. A small inflamed swelling of the skin that is filled with pus.

Derived Forms

• pustular, adjective

Other Words From

• pustuled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pustule¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Latin pūstula, pūsula a pimple, blister; akin to Greek phȳsaléos inflated

Word History and Origins

Origin of pustule¹

C14: from Latin pustula a blister, variant of pūsula; compare Greek phusallis bladder, phusa bellows

Example Sentences

The venom from an ant’s sting can “cause painful pustules on the skin, and can be particularly dangerous, even fatal, to sensitive groups or those with an allergy to the venom.”

From Los Angeles Times

The primary symptoms of Alaskapox include skin lesions like pustules and bumps, joint and muscle pain and swollen lymph nodes.

From Salon

Its appearance can vary, ranging from whiteheads and blackheads to pustules and nodules, mainly on the face, forehead, chest, upper back and shoulders.

From Science Daily

There's a weaponized virus of some sort that leaves gay men covered in sores and pustules that may or may not be a metaphor for AIDS.

From Salon

On Aug. 4th American officials declared a national public health emergency, prompting millions to fear that they would catch a disease that was notorious for causing pustules to emerge all over your body.

From Salon

Related Words

• abscess
• blister
• bruise
• bump
• contusion
• inflammation
• injury
• nodule
• sore
• tumor
• welt