scrofulous

adjective

scrof·​u·​lous ˈskrȯ-fyə-ləs How to pronounce scrofulous (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or affected with scrofula
2
a
: having a diseased run-down appearance
b
: morally contaminated
scrofulous characters … so quick to smearJohn Garrity

Word History

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of scrofulous was in 1612

Dictionary Entries Near scrofulous

Cite this Entry

“Scrofulous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scrofulous. Accessed 11 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

scrofulous

adjective
scrof·​u·​lous ˈskrȯf-yə-ləs, ˈskräf- How to pronounce scrofulous (audio)
: of, relating to, or affected with scrofula
scrofulous ulcers

More from Merriam-Webster on scrofulous

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!