erythrism

[ ih-rith-riz-uhm, er-uh-thriz-uhm ]

noun

1. abnormal redness, as of plumage or hair.

erythrism

/ ɪˈrɪθrɪzəm; ˌɛrɪˈθrɪzməl /

noun

1. abnormal red coloration, as in plumage or hair

Derived Forms

• erythrismal, adjective

Other Words From

• er·y·thris·mal [er-, uh, -, thriz, -m, uh, l], er·y·thris·tic [er-, uh, -, thris, -tik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of erythrism¹

First recorded in 1885–90; erythr- ( def ) + -ism

Example Sentences

Experts have only recorded two other cases of erythrism in North American badgers, burrowing carnivores found in grasslands across the western and central U.S.,

From National Geographic

So far, erythrism has been identified in dozens of species, including reef manta rays, leopards, and European polecats.

From National Geographic

Erythrism is likely caused by a recessive genetic mutation that triggers an increased production of red pigmentation in areas of fur or skin that are typically black, such as the badger’s facial stripes.

From National Geographic

She said in some grasshoppers the unusual colouration is caused by a condition called erythrism, which causes the insect's body to produce too much red pigment, others are juveniles that will turn greener and browner as they get older.

From BBC

In humans, erythrism may be responsible, at least in part, for red hair and freckles, according to the Huffington Post.

From Fox News