Definition

A painful skin infection that forms a lump and can have multiple openings for pus to come out, or a type of deep-red gemstone.

Example

The doctor diagnosed him with a carbuncle on his back that needed treatment.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a carbuncle in jewelry?

No, I haven't. What does it look like?

It's a deep-red stone, really beautiful and unique.

Sounds interesting! I’d love to check it out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Carbuncle is derived from the Latin "carbunculus" (meaning little coal or glowing ember), which is a diminutive form of "carbo" (meaning coal). The word originally referred to a painful, inflamed swelling on the skin that resembles a coal or ember in appearance.

Memory Tip

Think of 'coal' ('carbo') and how a carbuncle looks like a small, inflamed spot that glows or burns, similar to an ember.

Visually Confused Words