cold sore

noun

: a group of fluid-filled blisters appearing about or within the mouth that are caused by a herpes simplex virus and upon rupturing form crusts

called also fever blister

compare canker sore

Examples of cold sore in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Amelia first noticed her cold sore on October 14, three days after feeling small bumps on her lips. —Nina Turner, Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2024

Because of this, the department recommends that anyone with cold sores not kiss babies. —Sara Belcher, People.com, 29 Oct. 2024

Herpes: Painful blisters around the mouth or genitals from herpes may benefit from cool compresses, cold sore creams, or lidocaine for relief. —Susan Bard, Verywell Health, 27 Sep. 2024

In addition, McGill recommends patients who experience cold sores to take Valtrex in advance of treatments. —Emily Burns, WWD, 26 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

cold sore

noun

: a group of blisters about or within the mouth caused by a herpes virus

called also fever blister

Medical Definition

cold sore

noun

: a vesicular lesion that typically occurs in or around the mouth, that initially causes pain, burning, or itching before bursting and crusting over, and that is caused by a herpes simplex virus which remains dormant in the body and may be reactivated by a variety of factors (as stress, fever, or sunburn)

called also fever blister

compare canker sore