herpes
UK: ˈhɜː.piːz | US: ˈhɜːr.piːz
n. A viral infection characterized by painful blisters on the skin or mucous membranes.
n. Any of several diseases caused by herpesviruses, including genital herpes and cold sores.
herpes = herp<to creep> + es<noun suffix>
- herp (from Greek herpein <to creep>)
- es (noun-forming suffix, often used in medical terminology)
Etymology Origin:
The word herpes originates from the Greek herpein ("to creep"), reflecting the disease's characteristic spreading or creeping rash. Ancient Greek physicians used this term to describe skin lesions that appeared to "creep" across the body. The modern medical usage retains this imagery, emphasizing the viral infection's tendency to recur and spread.
Herpes simplex virus type 1 commonly causes cold sores around the mouth.
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection that requires medical management.
The doctor diagnosed the patient with herpes zoster, also known as shingles.
Stress can trigger a herpes outbreak in individuals carrying the virus.
Antiviral medications help reduce the severity of herpes symptoms.