Definition

A thick, yellowish-white fluid that forms in infected areas of the body, made up of dead cells, bacteria, and other substances.

Example

The doctor drained the pus from the infected wound to help it heal.

Conversation

I saw the doctor today because I had a weird bump on my arm.

Oh no! Did they say what it was?

Yeah, they said it was infected and there was some pus in it.

Yikes! I hope it heals up quickly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'pus' originates from Latin 'pus' (meaning matter or fluid produced in infected tissue). It refers specifically to the thick yellowish or greenish liquid that accumulates at sites of infection.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word 'pus' which means a fluid produced in infected tissue — this helps you remember that 'pus' refers to the discharge from an infection.

Visually Confused Words