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Wart Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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wart

[wษ”rt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

skin growth

A wart is a small, rough growth that typically appears on the skin. It is caused by a viral infection, specifically by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts can occur anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the hands, feet, and face. They are usually harmless, but some types can cause discomfort or may become bothersome. Warts can be treated with various methods, including over-the-counter medications, cryotherapy, or laser treatment.

Synonyms

blemish, growth, tumor.

Examples of usage

  • I have a wart on my finger.
  • The doctor recommended freezing the wart.
  • Warts can spread through direct contact.
  • He used a chemical treatment to remove the wart.

Translations

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

Origin of 'wart'

The term 'wart' comes from the Old English word 'wyrt', which means 'plant' or 'root'. This etymology reflects the appearance of warts, which are small, often resembling plant growths on the skin. The word has Germanic origins and is related to similar words in other languages, such as the Middle Dutch 'worte' and Old High German 'wurza'. Over the centuries, warts have been much discussed in medical texts, often associated with superstition and folklore, as people believed they could be a sign of witchcraft or disease. In the realm of medicine, the understanding of warts as viral infections was developed much later, with the discovery of HPV playing a critical role in their treatment and prevention. Despite modern medical advances, warts continue to evoke a range of cultural beliefs and treatments.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,715, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.