Definition

To develop a thickened and hardened area of skin, often due to repeated friction or pressure.

Example

After weeks of playing the guitar, he began to callus on his fingertips.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I think my hands are starting to callus from all the gardening we've been doing.

Yeah, that happens when you work with your hands a lot.

I guess it's a sign that I'm getting better at it, right?

Definitely! Those callus spots just show how hard you've been working.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A thick, hard area of skin that forms as a result of pressure or friction, often found on hands or feet.

Example

After weeks of working with the tools, he developed a callus on his palm.

Conversation

I noticed I have a tough spot on my foot; I think it's a callus.

Yeah, those can be annoying, especially if you walk a lot.

I should probably do something about it before it gets worse.

Root Explanation

**Callus** → The word 'callus' originates from Latin 'callus', meaning hard skin or callus. It refers specifically to the thickened and hardened area of skin that forms in response to friction or pressure.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word 'callus' which means hard skin — this helps you remember that a callus is a thickened area of skin formed due to pressure.

Visually Confused Words