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Definition of pustule

pustule

/ˈpʌs.tʃuːl/
pus · tule
Plural:pustules
•
Adjective:pustular
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pustule Lexical Profile

pustule Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A small, raised, circumscribed elevation of the skin containing purulent fluid (pus), such as a pimple or small abscess.

Example

"The dermatologist examined the inflamed pustule on the patient's arm to determine if a bacterial infection was present."

2

In botany and zoology, a small blister-like swelling, bump, or spore-producing elevation on the surface of a plant, fungus, or animal shell.

Example

"Rust fungi often form orange or brown pustules on the underside of infected leaves."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for pustule

• Nearby Words

pussycat
pussyfoot
pussywillow
pustule
put
putdown
putin

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French or directly from Latin 'pustula' (meaning a blister or pimple), which is related to 'pus' and traces back to an imitative root meaning to blow or swell up.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Pustule. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/pustule
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