Pustule: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in a medical or descriptive setting to describe a small, inflamed, pus-filled bump on the skin, often due to infection.

• The patient had a pustule on his arm that needed to be examined.
• She noticed a red pustule on her cheek that seemed to be getting bigger.

Commonly used to describe a raised area of skin filled with clear fluid, often caused by friction or burns.

• She got a blister on her heel from wearing new shoes.
• The athlete treated the blister on his foot before the next race.

Typically used in everyday language to describe a small, raised spot on the skin that is often associated with acne or blocked pores.

• He woke up with a pimple on his forehead.
• She was embarrassed by the pimple on her nose before the big event.

Refers to a more severe, localized infection characterized by a collection of pus that needs medical treatment. It often requires draining.

• The dentist drained the abscess in her gum.
• He was admitted to the hospital for treatment of a large abscess on his leg.

A pustule is a small, inflamed, pus-filled blister on the skin. It is often used in medical contexts to describe skin conditions such as acne or infections.

• The doctor examined the pustules on his patient's back and prescribed antibiotics.
• Her face was covered in painful pustules due to severe acne.

A bump is a raised area on the skin or another surface, often caused by a blow or pressure. It can refer to minor, non-medical conditions like a bruise or swelling.

• He had a small bump on his forehead after accidentally hitting the door.
• She noticed a bump on the road while driving.

A nodule is a small, rounded mass of tissue that is usually detected in medical examinations. It can occur within the body, such as in lungs or thyroid, and often requires further medical investigation.

• The ultrasound revealed a small nodule in her thyroid gland.
• Doctors found a nodule in his lung during a routine check-up.

A protuberance is an extended or protruding part of something, often used to describe physical features. It can apply to both living beings and inanimate objects.

• The old tree had a large protuberance on its trunk.
• His broken nose had a noticeable protuberance in the middle.