erythrism

[ih-rith-riz-uhm, er-uh-thriz-uhm]

noun

1. abnormal redness, as of plumage or hair.

erythrism

/ ɪˈrɪθrɪzəm, ˌɛrɪˈθrɪzməl /

noun

1. abnormal red coloration, as in plumage or hair

Other Word Forms

• erythrismal adjective
• erythristic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of erythrism¹

First recorded in 1885–90; erythr- ( def. ) + -ism

Example Sentences

Experts have only recorded two other cases of erythrism in North American badgers, burrowing carnivores found in grasslands across the western and central U.S.,

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So far, erythrism has been identified in dozens of species, including reef manta rays, leopards, and European polecats.

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Erythrism is likely caused by a recessive genetic mutation that triggers an increased production of red pigmentation in areas of fur or skin that are typically black, such as the badger’s facial stripes.

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She said in some grasshoppers the unusual colouration is caused by a condition called erythrism, which causes the insect's body to produce too much red pigment, others are juveniles that will turn greener and browner as they get older.

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The cats are likely pink hued because of a genetic mutation called erythrism.

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