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

Plus, here are the 15 best pimple patches to heal breakouts, some of which have also been tested by Select staffers. —Elizabeth Robinson, NBC News, 7 Mar. 2025

Bentonite clay, hyaluronic acid Size: 2.7 oz Pros: Helps soften skin bumps Cons: Might be drying to some This mud mask has a blend of bentonite clay and hyaluronic acid to suck up blackheads, pimples and pollution all while leaving the skin hydrated and non-stripped. —Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 3 Mar. 2025

Acne Acne is an inflammatory skin condition caused by sebum (oil), bacteria, and dead skin cells clogging pores, leading to pimples. —Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 30 Jan. 2025

Don't touch existing acne: Squeezing, rubbing, or picking at pimples can lead to scarring, slower healing times, and skin infections. —Laura Schober, Health, 23 Jan. 2025

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

Rhymes for pimple

• dimple
• simple

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