eczema

noun

ec·​ze·​ma ig-ˈzē-mə  ˈeg-zə-mə  ˈek-sə- 

: an inflammatory condition of the skin characterized by redness, itching, and oozing vesicular lesions which become scaly, crusted, or hardened

eczematous

ig-ˈze-mə-təs 

adjective

Examples of eczema in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The causes of eczema are not fully understood, but genetic and environmental factors likely play a role.9 Infections Viral, bacterial, parasitic, and fungal infections can cause a rash on the neck. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 12 Sep. 2024

This can be helpful when treating atopic dermatitis and other types of eczema. —Rosanna Sutherby, Verywell Health, 11 Sep. 2024

Consuming ceramide-rich foods may help manage inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. —Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 4 Sep. 2024

Does hypochlorous acid work on eczema? Is hypochlorous acid an antifungal? —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 15 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin, borrowed from Greek ékzema, from ekze-, stem of ekzéō, ekzeîn "to boil over, (of disease) break out" (from ek- ec- + zeîn "to boil, seethe") + -ma, resultative noun suffix — more at yeast entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1753, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

eczema

noun

ec·​ze·​ma ig-ˈzē-mə  ˈeg-zə-mə 

ˈek-sə-

: a skin disease marked by redness, itching, and scaly or crusty lesions

Medical Definition

eczema

noun

ec·​ze·​ma ig-ˈzē-mə  ˈeg-zə-mə  ˈek-sə- 

: an inflammatory condition of the skin characterized by redness, itching, and oozing vesicular lesions which become scaly, crusted, or hardened

eczematous

ig-ˈzem-ət-əs 

adjective