athlete's foot

American  

noun

Pathology.

1. a contagious disease, caused by a fungus that thrives on moist surfaces; ringworm of the feet.

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athlete's foot British  

noun

1. Technical name: tinea pedis.  a fungal infection of the skin of the foot, esp between the toes and on the soles

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Etymology

Origin of athlete's foot

An Americanism dating back to 1925–30

Example Sentences

Norms eventually hopes to offer products for “the butt to the gut and beyond,” Katz said about future ventures for athlete’s foot, jock itch and constipation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 21, 2025

Some use avocado to relieve symptoms of psoriasis, eczema, and athlete’s foot, although more scientific research needs to be done to fully support those claims.

From National Geographic • Feb. 7, 2024

For example, my dermatologist prescribed an ointment for athlete’s foot.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 22, 2023

When we dry the different areas of our body, they pick up organisms - such as on our feet like the one that causes athlete's foot.

From BBC • Sep. 9, 2023

No bread and fish, but he noticed that his bit of athlete’s foot had gone away; that he thought more clearly; that he could will certain foods to appear in the icebox.

From "Typical American" by Gish Jen