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Carbuncle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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carbuncle

[ˈkɑːr.bʌŋ.kəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

A carbuncle is a serious infection that involves the skin and surrounding tissues. It typically appears as a swollen, red lump filled with pus that can drain. Carbuncles usually develop when bacteria enter the body through hair follicles or skin abrasions. They can be painful and often require medical treatment, such as drainage or antibiotics, to alleviate symptoms and prevent further infection.

Synonyms

abscess, boil.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor diagnosed her with a carbuncle on her back.
  • He had to undergo a minor surgery to remove the carbuncle.
  • After using antibiotics, the carbuncle started to heal.
  • She felt relief after the carbuncle was drained.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Medical Insights

  • Carbuncles are a type of skin infection that occurs when several hair follicles become infected together.
  • They are often associated with bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus, which can lead to more serious infections if not treated properly.
  • These infections can be painful and may require drainage or antibiotics for treatment.

Historical Context

  • During the Middle Ages, carbuncles were sometimes mistaken for more serious illnesses like plague due to their severe appearance.
  • Noted physicians in history, such as Avicenna, discussed the condition and its implications in their medical texts.

Cultural References

  • In literature, the term has appeared in different contexts, including as a metaphor for something painful or unsightly.
  • Songs and poetry sometimes reference carbuncles to symbolize distress or discomfort.

Modern Usage

  • Today, the term is more commonly used in a medical context and is often overshadowed by other terms like boils or abscesses.
  • In biochemistry, 'carbuncle' can refer to certain complex molecules related to skin infections.

Origin of 'carbuncle'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'carbunculus,' which means 'little coal,' referring to the reddish color of the lesions.
  • In Middle English, it was often used to denote precious stones, indicating a historical shift in meaning from gems to medical conditions.

The term 'carbuncle' originates from the Latin word 'carbunculus', which means 'little coal' due to the dark appearance of the inflamed tissue. This term evolved from 'carbo', meaning 'coal' in Latin, as the condition resembles a burning or coal-like sore on the skin. Historical texts have mentioned carbuncles as severe skin infections, often linked to filth and neglect, especially in the Middle Ages. They were considered serious enough to warrant attention in medical treatises from ancient physicians. Throughout history, carbuncles have been treated with various remedies, including poultices and antiseptics, as understanding of bacterial infections grew. Today, with advancements in medical science, the treatment of carbuncles typically involves antibiotics and sometimes surgical intervention.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,935 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.