Definition

Relating to herpes or diseases caused by herpes viruses, such as sores or infections.

Example

She was diagnosed with a herpetic infection after experiencing painful sores.

Conversation

I heard that you were feeling unwell last week.

Yeah, I had this weird herpetic sore throat.

That sounds uncomfortable! Did you see a doctor?

I did, and they gave me some medicine to help with it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Herpetic is derived from "herpes" (from Greek "herpeton", meaning to creep or crawl) and the suffix "-ic" (meaning pertaining to). The term refers to conditions related to the creeping or crawling nature of the herpes virus, which causes skin lesions.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for creeping or crawling ('herpeton') to remember that 'herpetic' relates to conditions caused by the herpes virus, which often manifests in a creeping manner on the skin.

Visually Confused Words