herpes

noun

her·​pes ˈhər-(ˌ)pēz How to pronounce herpes (audio)
: any of several inflammatory diseases of the skin caused by herpesviruses and characterized by clusters of vesicles
especially : herpes simplex
herpetic adjective

Examples of herpes in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For example, the implants may have been contaminated with antibiotic-resistant staphylococcus, herpes B virus, and other pathogens. Justine Calma, The Verge, 9 Feb. 2023 This is especially true if your cat is positive for feline herpes virus. Dallas News, 22 Dec. 2022 Kelly could be on the hook for tens of thousands of dollars more to pay for herpes treatment and counseling for a second victim once the final tally is calculated. Tom Hays, USA TODAY, 29 Sep. 2022 Three of the people reported no symptoms, while another reported a painful rash, which was misdiagnosed as herpes. Brenda Goodman, CNN, 31 Jan. 2023 See all Example Sentences for herpes 

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from Greek herpēs, from herpein to creep — more at serpent

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of herpes was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near herpes

Cite this Entry

“Herpes.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/herpes. Accessed 12 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

herpes

noun
her·​pes ˈhər-(ˌ)pēz How to pronounce herpes (audio)
: any of several virus diseases (as herpes simplex) marked by the formation of blisters on the skin or mucous membranes and caused by herpesviruses

Medical Definition

herpes

noun
her·​pes ˈhər-(ˌ)pēz How to pronounce herpes (audio)
: any of several inflammatory diseases of the skin caused by herpesviruses and characterized by clusters of vesicles
especially : herpes simplex

More from Merriam-Webster on herpes

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