pimple

noun

pim·​ple ˈpim-pəl 

1

: a small inflamed elevation of the skin : papule

especially : pustule

2

: a swelling or protuberance like a pimple

pimpled

ˈpim-pəld 

adjective

pimply

ˈpim-p(ə-)lē 

adjective

Synonyms

• boil
• fester
• hickey
• papule
• pock
• pustule
• whelk
• zit [slang]

Examples of pimple in a Sentence

a painful pimple on his back

Recent Examples on the Web

Some pimple patches are a standard circle shape, but these come in a cute star for a more fun look. —Katrina Cossey, Parents, 11 Dec. 2024

Pesky pimples, fine lines exacerbated by dehydration, and redness are difficult to camouflage — but there’s a secret weapon solution that’s quietly winning over makeup artists and industry insiders: Lancôme’s Dual Finish Powder Foundation. —Katie McBroom, WWD, 4 Dec. 2024

One such unqualified candidate is a nurse trying to pop her own pimple. —Ben Travers, IndieWire, 27 Nov. 2024

Gabriele was their father, and the logo depicts him at age 14 (minus any pimples). —Tamara Shopsin, New York Times, 26 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English pymple; akin to Old English piplian to break out in pimples, and probably to English pimp — more at pimp entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

pimple

noun

pim·​ple ˈpim-pəl 

: a small swelling of the skin often containing pus : pustule

pimpled

-pəld 

adjective

pimply

-p(ə-)lē 

adjective

Medical Definition

pimple

noun

pim·​ple ˈpim-pəl 

1

: a small inflamed elevation of the skin : papule

especially : pustule

2

: a swelling or protuberance like a pimple

pimpled

-pəld 

adjective

pimply

-p(ə-)lē 

adjective