yaws

Definition

A contagious tropical disease, caused by the spirochete Treponema pertenue, characterized by yellowish or reddish tumors, which often resemble berries.

Etymology

Uncertain. Attested since the 1670s, perhaps from an English creole (or other language) of the Caribbean.

Example Sentences

• "Other threats came from organisms co-evolving with humans, including tapeworms and such spirochaetes as Treponema, the agent of syphilis, and the similar skin infection, yaws."