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Zits Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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zits

[zɪts ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

skin

A zit is a small, inflamed swelling of the skin, usually caused by acne or blocked pores. It is commonly known as a pimple.

Synonyms

acne, blemish, pimple.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
zits

This is informal and is often used by teenagers or in casual conversation to describe small inflamed spots on the skin.

  • I've got a huge zit on my forehead!
  • He was worried about the zits on his face before the school photo.
pimple

This word is more neutral and commonly used to refer to individual inflamed spots on the skin. It is suitable for both informal and formal conversations.

  • She popped the pimple on her chin and regretted it immediately.
  • Pimples are often caused by clogged pores.
acne

This is a medical term and is used in more formal or clinical settings. It refers to a skin condition that causes pimples and other issues.

  • She went to the dermatologist to get her acne treated.
  • Acne can be caused by a variety of factors including hormones and diet.
blemish

This word is used in a more general sense to describe any mark, spot, or imperfection on the skin or surface. It is not limited to pimples but includes other types of spots or discolorations.

  • The facial cream claims to reduce blemishes.
  • He has a small blemish on his cheek from a previous injury.

Examples of usage

  • I woke up with a huge zit on my forehead.
  • She tried to cover her zits with makeup.
  • The teenager was self-conscious about her zits.
  • The zit on his nose was painful to touch.
  • Zits can be treated with over-the-counter products.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Impact

  • Teen movies from the 80s and 90s often featured characters dealing with zits as a rite of passage, humorously highlighting teenage insecurities.
  • The portrayal of zits in social media memes reflects the shared experience of adolescents, turning a common struggle into relatable humor.

Health and Science

  • Zits are the result of pores becoming clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, leading to inflammation.
  • Hormones play a significant role in acne development, especially during puberty, triggering increased oil production in skin glands.

Psychology

  • For many teenagers, the presence of zits can negatively impact self-esteem and body image, leading to anxiety about appearance.
  • Studies suggest that acceptance and open discussions about skin issues can help reduce stigma and improve confidence among young people.

Treatment and Care

  • Over-the-counter treatments often include ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which help to reduce oil and bacteria on the skin.
  • Lifestyle choices, such as a healthy diet and regular cleansing, can significantly impact skin health and can reduce the occurrence of zits.

Origin of 'zits'

Main points about word origin

  • The slang term 'zit' likely originated in the United States during the 1950s, deriving from 'acne' as it became common among teenagers.
  • The word 'acne' comes from the Greek word 'akmÄ“,' meaning 'point' or 'a peak,' often referring to the raised appearance of spots on the skin.

The word 'zit' originated in the mid-20th century as a slang term for a pimple or acne. It is believed to have derived from the German word 'zitze', which means teat or nipple. Over time, 'zit' became commonly used in English-speaking countries to refer to a small, inflamed swelling of the skin. The term gained popularity in the context of skincare and dermatology, where it is used to describe a specific type of skin condition.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,949, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.