impetigo

/ɪmpəˈtaɪɡoʊ/

impetigo

English Noun

Definition

A contagious bacterial skin disease forming pustules and yellow crusty sores, chiefly on the face and hands. It is common in children and infection is often through cuts or insect bites.

Etymology

Learned borrowing from Latin impetīgō, from impetĕre (literally “to rush upon, assail, attack”).