scrofulous

adjective

scrof·​u·​lous ˈskrȯ-fyə-ləs 

1

: of, relating to, or affected with scrofula

2

a

: having a diseased run-down appearance

b

: morally contaminated

scrofulous characters … so quick to smear

—John Garrity

Word History

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

scrofulous

adjective

scrof·​u·​lous ˈskrȯf-yə-ləs, ˈskräf- 

: of, relating to, or affected with scrofula

scrofulous ulcers