Abscess - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
An abscess is a painful collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It often forms as a swollen, inflamed lump under the skin or inside the body.
Definition:
A swollen, pus-filled area caused by infection, typically in tissues.
Synonyms:
boil, sore, pustule, ulcer
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
health, wellness
Common Collocations:
painful abscess, drain an abscess, treat an abscess, dental abscess, skin abscess
Derivatives:
abscessed, abscessing
Usage Tips:
Use "abscess" to describe a localized infection with pus; avoid for general swelling without infection.
Common Phrases:
"abscess of the mind, " "burst like an abscess, " "festering abscess"
Etymology:
From Latin "abscessus," meaning "a going away" or "pus discharge."
Examples:
- 1. The doctor lanced the abscess to relieve the pain.
- 2. She developed an abscess after the untreated wound became infected.
- 3. Antibiotics can help treat a small abscess before it worsens.
- 4. His toothache was caused by a painful dental abscess.