We use cookies to enhance your experience on our website. By continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time. Find out more

Subscriber login

Library card login

Other

X Close menu

Dictionary Language resources

abscess

Syllabification: (ab·scess)

Pronunciation: /ˈabˌses/

Translate abscess | into French | into German | into Italian | into Spanish

Definition of abscess

noun

a swollen area within body tissue, containing an accumulation of pus.

Origin:

mid 16th century: from Latin abscessus 'a going away', from the verb abscedere, from ab- 'away from' + cedere 'go', referring to the elimination of infected matter via the pus

Remember that abscess is spelled with -sc- in the middle, and a double s at the end.