An abscess is a painful and swollen area of tissue that is filled with pus. It is a common medical condition that affects people of all ages. Abscesses can occur in different parts of the body, including the skin, teeth, gums, and internal organs. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of abscess, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
An abscess is defined as a localized collection of pus that is surrounded by inflamed tissue. It is a result of an infection that causes the body’s immune system to send white blood cells to the affected area, which leads to the formation of pus. The pus is made up of dead tissue, white blood cells, and bacteria.
Origin
The word “abscess” comes from the Latin word “abscessus,” which means “a going away.” It was first used in the English language in the 16th century to describe a sore that was filled with pus. The term was derived from the Latin word “abscedere,” which means “to depart” or “to withdraw.”
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, an abscess is “a localized collection of pus surrounded by inflamed tissue.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a swollen area within body tissue, containing an accumulation of pus.”
Associations
Abscesses are commonly associated with infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. They can also be caused by foreign objects, such as splinters or needles, that enter the body and cause an infection. Abscesses can occur in any part of the body, including the skin, teeth, gums, and internal organs.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for abscess include boil, carbuncle, pimple, cyst, and sore.
Antonyms
There are no antonyms for abscess.
The same root words
There are no other words that share the same root as abscess.
Example Sentences
- She had to have surgery to drain the abscess in her tooth.
- The doctor prescribed antibiotics to treat the abscess on his skin.
- The abscess on his gums was causing him a lot of pain.
- The wound became infected and developed into an abscess.
- The abscess was so large that it had to be drained twice.