Pimples Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pimples

[ˈpɪmpəlz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

skin condition

Small, raised, inflamed spots on the skin, typically caused by a blockage in the skin's pores. Pimples are common during puberty due to hormonal changes.

Synonyms

acne, blemishes, zits.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pimples

Used commonly to describe small, red, raised spots on the skin, often occurring on the face. It's an everyday term, especially among teenagers and young adults.

  • I woke up with a pimple on my forehead.
  • She tried different creams to get rid of her pimples.
acne

Usually refers to a skin condition where many pimples appear over a larger area of the body, such as the face, back, or chest. It's often used in medical or serious contexts.

  • He went to the dermatologist to treat his acne.
  • Teenagers often struggle with acne during puberty.
zits

A casual, slang term for pimples, often used by teenagers and young adults. It has a slightly informal and youthful tone.

  • He popped his zit before the big date.
  • Nobody likes waking up with a huge zit on their nose.
blemishes

Broad term that describes any kind of mark, spot, or imperfection on the skin, not necessarily limited to pimples. Can be used in both casual and formal contexts.

  • She uses makeup to cover her blemishes.
  • The moisturizer helps to reduce skin blemishes.

Examples of usage

  • I have a few pimples on my forehead.
  • She uses a special cream to treat her pimples.
  • Pimples can be painful and embarrassing for some people.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Pimples are most commonly caused by acne, which occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells.
  • Hormones play a significant role in acne development, especially during puberty when oil production increases.
  • Certain bacteria on the skin can contribute to inflammation, making pimples red and swollen when the clogged pore becomes infected.

Culture

  • Products designed to treat pimples, like acne creams and cleansers, are a multi-billion dollar industry globally.
  • Pimples and acne are often portrayed in media as a common teenage problem, emphasizing issues of self-esteem during adolescence.

Health

  • While pimples are often seen as a cosmetic issue, severe acne can lead to permanent scarring, making it essential to seek treatment.
  • Diet can impact skin health; foods high in sugar and dairy are linked to increased acne in some individuals.

Psychology

  • The presence of pimples can affect self-image and confidence, particularly during teenage years.
  • Research indicates that young people with acne may experience higher levels of anxiety and depression.

Origin of 'pimples'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'pimple' comes from the Latin word 'pimplus,' meaning 'puffed up' or 'swollen.'
  • In the 14th century, the term appeared in English texts, used to describe various skin blemishes.

The word 'pimples' originated from the Old English word 'pimple' which meant a pustule or swelling. The term has been used to describe skin blemishes since the 14th century. Pimples are a common skin condition that affects people of all ages, but are most prevalent during adolescence due to hormonal changes.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,874, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.