Langimage
English

scabies

|sca-bies|

C1

/ˈskeɪ.biːz/

contagious skin disease

Etymology
Etymology Information

'scabies' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'scabere,' where 'scab-' meant 'to scratch.'

Historical Evolution

'scabere' transformed into the Medieval Latin word 'scabia,' and eventually became the modern English word 'scabies.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to scratch or itch,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a skin disease caused by mites.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a contagious skin disease marked by itching and small raised red spots, caused by the itch mite.

The doctor diagnosed the rash as scabies.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/04/26 09:08