Purpura Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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purpura

[ˈpɜːr.pjʊər.ə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

A condition characterized by purple or red discolorations on the skin that do not blanch when pressure is applied. Purpura is caused by bleeding underneath the skin due to damaged blood vessels.

Examples of usage

  • Purpura can be a sign of a serious underlying medical condition.
  • The patient presented with purpura on their arms and legs.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Medicine

  • Purpura describes a condition characterized by purple or red spots on the skin caused by bleeding underneath, often linked to various medical conditions.
  • There are several types of purpura, including thrombocytopenic purpura, where low platelet counts impact bleeding and clotting.
  • Some forms of purpura are related to autoimmune diseases, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells.

Art and Culture

  • The color purple has long been associated with creativity, spirituality, and mystery in various art movements and cultures.
  • Many painters use purpura to convey emotions, often representing themes like passion or the sublime in their work.

Botany

  • There are plants known as purpura species, which can display beautiful purple hues in their flowers or foliage, adding to gardens’ aesthetic value.
  • Certain fruits, such as elderberries, can exhibit a purplish tone, contributing to their unique flavor and appeal.

Literature

  • In literature, purpura can symbolize both power and suffering, representing characters in turmoil or those with royal status throughout various narratives.
  • Purple hues are often described in poetry to evoke feelings of warmth, richness, and depth in emotions.

Origin of 'purpura'

Main points about word origin

  • Originates from the Latin word 'purpura', meaning 'purple', which was used in ancient times to describe a dye made from sea snails.
  • The term was historically associated with royalty, as purple dye was rare and expensive, making it a symbol of power and wealth.

The word 'purpura' comes from the Latin word 'purpura', which means 'purple'. In ancient times, purple was associated with royalty and power, as it was a rare and expensive color to produce. The term 'purpura' has been used in medical contexts to describe the characteristic purple discolorations of the skin since the 16th century.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,766, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.