herpes simplex

noun

herpes sim·​plex -ˈsim-ˌpleks 

: either of two diseases caused by herpesviruses (species Human herpesvirus 1 and Human herpesvirus 2 of the genus Simplexvirus) and marked especially by watery blisters on the skin or mucous membranes of the lips, mouth, face, or genital region

Examples of herpes simplex in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

More serious complications can arise if the virus spreads to the eyes, leading to a condition called herpes simplex keratitis, which can cause blurred vision and even permanent damage if left untreated. —Nina Turner, Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2024

According to the New York State Department of Health, babies who contract HSV (herpes simplex virus) require hospitalization for up to 21 days, and the infection can still cause brain damage or even death. —Sara Belcher, People.com, 29 Oct. 2024

Infection with yeasts, certain fungi, and herpes simplex virus (HSV) can also cause hangnail infections.1 Risk Factors Certain health factors, conditions, and habits raise your risk of developing hangnail infections. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 9 Oct. 2024

Stress begets stress Cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), a highly contagious virus that is estimated to infect 3.7 billion people under the age of 50 globally. —Beth Mole, Ars Technica, 5 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, literally, simple herpes

First Known Use

1907, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

herpes simplex

noun

herpes sim·​plex -ˈsim-ˌpleks 

: either of two kinds of herpes marked in one case by groups of watery blisters on the skin and mucous membranes (as of the mouth and lips) above the waist and in the other by such blisters on the genitalia

Medical Definition

herpes simplex

noun

herpes sim·​plex -ˈsim-ˌpleks 

: either of two viral diseases caused by herpesviruses of the genus Simplexvirus that are marked especially by watery blisters on the skin or mucous membranes of the lips, mouth, face, or genital region see hsv-1, hsv-2