chilblain

American  

[chil-bleyn] / ˈtʃɪl bleɪn /

noun

Pathology.

1. an inflammation of the hands and feet caused by exposure to cold and moisture.

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chilblain British  

/ ˈtʃɪlˌbleɪn /

noun

1. Technical name: pernio.  pathol (usually plural) an inflammation of the fingers, toes, or ears, caused by prolonged exposure to moisture and cold

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Other Word Forms

• chilblained
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of chilblain

First recorded in 1540–50; chill + blain

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

chilblain

Frequently the whole foot is like a big "chilblain" and is very hot, red and swollen.

From 1914 by French, John Denton Pinkstone, Earl of Ypres

"Got a thorn in your shoe, or a stone-bruise, or a chilblain?"

From Vanguards of the Plains by McCarter, Margaret Hill

And, twirling twice in the midst of a corolla of pink cashmere dressing-gown, she sank to the floor and began to nurse a chilblain on her heel.

From The Story of Louie by Onions, Oliver [pseud.]

From that on down to 1380 we hear or read varying and disconnected accounts of people who have been up that way, acquired a large red chilblain, made an observation, and died.

From Cordwood by Nye, Bill

The moment she complains of headache, or toothache, or a chilblain on the heel, the angel game is off, and she's got to try and hold her own as a simple mortal.

From The Gay Lord Quex A Comedy in Four Acts by Pinero, Arthur Wing, Sir