foot rot

noun

1

: a progressive inflammation of the feet of sheep, goats, or cattle that is associated with bacterial infection

2

: a plant disease marked by rot of the stem near the ground

Examples of foot rot in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In fact, some aspects of this year’s state orders have long been standard practice: a licensed vet at the fair check-in, for instance, examining animals and their health papers, ensuring no foot rot or mastitis gets in. —Eric Boodman, STAT, 16 July 2024

Many were anemic and had foot rot, a contagious bacterial disease that can be life-threatening if left untreated in wet environments. —Hilary Howard, New York Times, 22 Feb. 2024

Ocean rowers can suffer all kinds of nasty ailments during long periods at sea — from unremitting foot rot and sun blisters to fractured bones and renal failure. —Gregory Thomas, SFChronicle.com, 15 Sep. 2020

Wet feet are the quickest way to blisters, frostbite, and even foot rot. —Outdoor Life, 13 May 2020

Creating the organic layers too close to the trunks has encouraged foot rot a disease. —Tom MacCubbin, OrlandoSentinel.com, 21 Apr. 2018

Word History

First Known Use

1706, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

foot rot

noun

: a progressive inflammation of foot tissues (as between the digits) especially of sheep or cattle

specifically : a necrobacillosis marked by sloughing, ulceration, suppuration, and sometimes loss of the hoof