yeast infection

noun

: infection of the vagina with an overgrowth of a normally present candidal fungus (Candida albicans) that is characterized by a discharge and inflammation

broadly : an infection (such as thrush) caused by a yeast fungus or a yeast-like fungus

Examples of yeast infection in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In addition to figuring out the best way to treat a patient’s diabetes, doctors will typically treat the yeast infection with an antibiotic or over-the-counter antifungal cream. —Angela Haupt, TIME, 18 Oct. 2024

These include: Thrush (oral yeast infection) Lichen planus Geographic tongue In order to do this, your dentist will look in your mouth. —Kelly Burch Published, Verywell Health, 2 Oct. 2024

If left untreated, yeast infections can worsen over time.6 Yeast infections are treated with antifungal medications. —Wendy Wisner, Health, 29 Sep. 2024

Over-the-counter creams, like hydrocortisone or calamine, are effective for itchy rashes, while antifungal creams work for yeast infections and jock itch. —Susan Bard, Verywell Health, 27 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1966, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

yeast infection

noun

: an infection of the vagina with an overgrowth of a yeastlike fungus of the genus Candida (C. albicans) normally present in the vaginal flora and characterized by vaginal discharge and vulvovaginitis

broadly : an infection (as thrush or tinea versicolor) caused by a yeast or yeastlike fungus