hives

Definition

Itchy, swollen, red areas of the skin which can appear quickly in response to an allergen or due to other conditions.

Etymology

Uncertain, but frequently connected with heave, even if such a derivation is phonologically difficult.

Example Sentences

• "So when I was diagnosed with a fairly difficult-to-treat disease called idiopathic angioedema and chronic urticaria (a fancy way of saying we don’t know why you swell and hey, enjoy the 24/7 hives) six months ago, I wasn't quite sure how to cope."
• "When she recovers enough to look down at her arms [...] she blinks to see them covered in faint, but rising, puffy welts. Hives. She's breaking out in hives."