ulcer

[uhl-ser]

noun

1. Pathology.,  a sore on the skin or a mucous membrane, accompanied by the disintegration of tissue, the formation of pus, etc.

2. peptic ulcer.

3. any chronically corrupting or disrupting condition, element, etc.

ulcer

/ ˈʌlsə /

noun

1. a disintegration of the surface of the skin or a mucous membrane resulting in an open sore that heals very slowly See also peptic ulcer

2. a source or element of corruption or evil

ulcer

1. A break in the skin or a mucous membrane, such as the one lining the stomach or duodenum, accompanied by inflammation, pus, and loss of tissue.

ulcer

1. An inflamed open sore on the skin or mucous membrane. An ulcer may form in the inner lining of the stomach or duodenum, interfere with digestion, and cause considerable pain.

It used to be thought that stress was the cause of stomach and duodenal ulcers, but we now know that they are caused by bacteria and can be cured by antibiotics.

Other Word Forms

• antiulcer adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of ulcer¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Latin ulcer-, stem of ulcus; akin to Greek hélkos, perhaps also to Old Norse illr ( ill ( def. ) )

Word History and Origins

Origin of ulcer¹

C14: from Latin ulcus; related to Greek helkos a sore

Example Sentences

The man had been in Golden State Annex and Mesa Verde ICE Processing Center and during detention developed ulcers in his mouth.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Squirrels carry some diseases that can be transmitted to humans, including Lyme disease and tularemia, which causes flu-like symptoms and skin ulcers.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The animals are treated with a mix of antibiotics, gastroprotectants to address stomach ulcers, and bagged fluids to help stabilize the kidneys.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

In some cases, chronic venous insufficiency can also cause painful cramps, spasms and leg ulcers.

Read more on BBC

While we get ulcers worrying about jobs, bills and whether or not our fire insurance will be revoked, they are throwing fits over who sits where in the car or why their T-shirt feels scratchy.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• abscess 
• lesion 
• sore 

When To Use

What does ulcer mean?

An ulcer is a sore on the skin or on a mucous membrane, such as the lining of your stomach. If left untreated, ulcers can result in serious health problems, such as inflammation or death of tissues.Ulcers in the stomach are fairly common in Western countries. They are generally easy to treat but can become serious if not treated.Example: The doctor discovered that an ulcer was causing my stomach pain.