hives

noun

ˈhīvz 

plural in form but singular or plural in construction

: an allergic disorder marked by raised edematous patches of skin or mucous membrane and usually intense itching and caused by contact with a specific precipitating factor (such as a food, drug, or inhalant) either externally or internally

called also urticaria

Examples of hives in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Even laundry detergents can wreak havoc, causing dry patches, hives, breakouts, or itchy skin. —Zoë Hannah, Popular Mechanics, 1 Feb. 2023

In addition, some people may experience allergic reactions to maca, including skin rash, hives, and difficulty breathing. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 15 Jan. 2023

Food allergies can cause digestive problems, hives, swelling, rashes, and even anaphylaxis. —Erica Sweeney, Men's Health, 5 Jan. 2023

Now, for the final and most important verdict: does this product make my chest and back break out in hives, redness, rashes, pimples, etc.? —Anamaria Glavan, Allure, 24 Dec. 2022

Word History

Etymology

origin unknown

First Known Use

circa 1500, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

hives

singular or plural noun

ˈhīvz 

: an allergic condition in which the skin or mucous membrane breaks out in large red itching patches

Medical Definition

hives

noun, plural in form but singular or plural in construction

ˈhīvz 

: an allergic disorder marked by raised edematous red patches of skin or mucous membrane and usually by intense itching and caused by contact with a specific precipitating factor (as a food, drug, or inhalant) either externally or internally

called also urticaria