What is verruca? How to use in English

Definition & pronunciation of verruca

verrucanoun

mụn cóc

/vəˈruːkə//vəˈruːkə/

Where does the word verruca come from?

The word "verruca" is commonly used to describe a small, rough, and typically painless growth on the skin, commonly found on the hands and feet. The term has its roots in Latin, where it was used to describe a wart-like growth. The word "verruca" comes from the Latin verb "verreus" which means "to wrap around" or "to turn." This refers to the rough, raised appearance of the growth, which may seem as if it is wrapped around the skin or turning inward. In medieval times, the word "verrucaria" was used to describe a type of lichen, which was also known for its rough, wart-like appearance. This may have contributed to the use of "verruca" as a medical term for a skin condition. In the late 1800s, the term "verruca" began to be used to describe a specific type of wart, known as the common wart or verruca vulgaris. Today, the term is commonly used to describe any wart-like growth, regardless of whether it is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) virus, as is the case with the common wart. In some parts of the world, the term "verruca" is still used interchangeably with "wart," while in others, it is a specific medical term. However, it is generally accepted that "verruca" refers to a small, benign growth on the skin, which is typically caused by a virus and is generally harmless.

Vocabulary summary verruca

typenoun, plural verrucae

meaning(medicine) wart, wart

Example of vocabulary verrucanamespace

  • After noticing a wart on her foot, Maria went to the doctor to have it examined. To her dismay, he diagnosed her with a verruca.
  • Beth had been suffering from a painful verruca on her heel for weeks. She tried several over-the-counter remedies, but none of them worked.
  • Sam's daughter came down with a verruca on her hand, which she picked up from the school playground. He urged her to wash her hands regularly and avoid touching common surfaces.
  • Jessica's verruca on her knee refused to clear up, no matter how many times she applied the salicylic acid treatment. She considered seeking further medical intervention.
  • John's verruca on his big toe was so large and discolored that it was unsightly. He was self-conscious about exposing his feet in public and avoided going to the beach altogether.

Synonyms and related words for verruca


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