Definition

A mild skin disease in cows caused by a virus, which can create a rash and can help protect humans from smallpox when transmitted through vaccination.

Example

The farmer noticed that some of his cattle had cowpox, which is usually harmless to them.

Conversation

Did you know that cowpox is actually used in vaccines?

Really? I had no idea it was related to smallpox.

Yeah, it’s fascinating how such a mild disease can provide immunity.

That’s nature for you — always finding ways to protect us!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cowpox is formed from "cow" (from Old English "cū", meaning a domesticated bovine animal) and "pox" (from Middle English "pocks", meaning a disease characterized by pustules). The term refers to a disease affecting cows that is characterized by pustules, which can also infect humans.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'cow' representing the animal affected by this disease, and 'pox' indicating the pustular disease, helping you remember that cowpox is a disease related to cows.

Visually Confused Words