Pimple Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pimple

[ˈpɪmpəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

on the face

A small swelling on the skin, especially of the face, that contains pus.

Synonyms

blemish, spot, zit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pimple

Commonly used by teenagers or young adults to describe a small swelling on the skin, often filled with pus, due to skin pores being clogged with oil or dead skin cells.

  • I woke up with a huge pimple on my forehead this morning
spot

Usually used in a casual conversation to describe a small mark or discoloration on the skin. It can also refer to other types of skin imperfections or conditions.

  • The dermatologist examined the spots on his back to make sure they weren't dangerous
zit

A slang term often used by teenagers and young adults to describe a pimple in a more informal or casual context.

  • Don't worry about the zit on your chin; it's barely noticeable
blemish

A more general term that can refer to any kind of mark, spot, or imperfection on the skin, and is typically used in a more formal or broader medical context.

  • She used a special cream to reduce the appearance of blemishes on her face

Examples of usage

  • It's important not to pop a pimple to avoid scarring.
  • She woke up with a pimple on her nose.
Context #2 | Noun

medical

A small inflamed swelling of the skin, typically caused by a blockage of a pore due to an excess of oil or dead skin cells.

Synonyms

acne, blackhead, pustule.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pimple

Commonly used in everyday conversation to refer to a small, raised bump on the skin, often caused by clogged pores or minor infections. It's less clinical and more casual.

  • I have a pimple on my forehead.
  • She felt embarrassed because of the big pimple on her nose.
acne

Used to describe a skin condition involving multiple pimples, blackheads, and other types of blemishes. More clinical and often used in medical or dermatological contexts.

  • He has been struggling with acne throughout his teenage years.
  • She's seeing a dermatologist for her acne treatment.
pustule

A medical term used to describe a small, inflamed, pus-filled blister. Often used in dermatology and may sound more clinical or serious.

  • The doctor noticed a few pustules on the patient's back.
  • Pustules are often a sign of a bacterial infection.
blackhead

Specifically used to describe a type of acne characterized by small dark spots, usually on the face and nose. More specific than 'pimple' and often used in skincare contexts.

  • My nose is covered in blackheads.
  • She bought a special tool to remove blackheads from her skin.

Examples of usage

  • Pimples can be treated with over-the-counter medications.
  • The dermatologist recommended a skincare routine to prevent pimples.

Translations

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Origin of 'pimple'

The word 'pimple' originated from the Old English 'piplian', meaning 'to break out in pimples'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century to describe small swellings on the skin. Pimples are a common skin condition that can occur due to various factors such as hormonal changes, stress, or poor hygiene.


See also: pimp.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,235 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.