pox
UK: pɒks | US: pɑːks
n. A disease characterized by pustules or eruptions on the skin (e.g., smallpox, chickenpox).
n. (Archaic) A curse or plague (figurative use).
The word "pox" originated in late Middle English as an alteration of "pocks," the plural of "pock" (meaning a pustule or blister). It traces back to Old English "pocc" and Proto-Germanic *pukkaz, likely imitative of the sound or appearance of bursting blisters. Historically, "pox" was often used in curses (e.g., "A pox on you!") and became strongly associated with diseases like smallpox. Its compact form reflects its ancient Germanic roots, making it non-splittable into smaller meaningful units.
Smallpox was a deadly pox eradicated by vaccination.
The child contracted chickenpox and had to stay home.
(Archaic) "A pox upon your house!" shouted the angry nobleman.
The doctor identified the rash as a mild pox virus.
Historians study how the pox devastated populations in the 18th century.