abscess
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈæb.sɛs/
KK: /ˈæb.sɛs/
intransitive verb
Definition
An area of swollen tissue filled with pus that forms in the body due to infection or inflammation.
Example
The wound began to abscess, causing significant pain.
Tense Forms
Past: abscessed
Past Participle: abscessed
Conversation
I heard that if you don't take care of a toothache, it can abscess later on.
Wow, I didn't know that! That sounds really painful.
Yeah, that's why I always go to the dentist regularly.
Good idea! I should probably start doing the same.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
suppurate
Antonyms
noun
Definition
A swollen area in the body filled with pus, usually caused by infection, and surrounded by inflamed tissue.
Example
The doctor drained the abscess to relieve the patient's pain.
Conversation
I went to the doctor because I had this weird pain in my gum.
Oh no, what did they say?
They told me it was an abscess and I need to get it treated soon.
Root Explanation
Abscess → It is formed from "ab-" (meaning away) and "cedere" (meaning to go or yield). The word describes a localized collection of pus that has formed away from the surrounding tissue, indicating a response to infection.
Memory Tip
Think of something that has 'gone away' ('ab-') from the normal tissue, which helps you remember that an abscess is a collection of pus that forms away from the surrounding area.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.