monkeypox

American  

[muhng-kee-poks] / ˈmʌŋ kiˌpɒks /

noun

Pathology.

1. (no longer in technical use) mpox. MPX

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Usage

What is monkeypox? Monkeypox is a contagious disease caused by a virus. The name monkeypox is used for both the disease and the virus that causes it. Monkeypox typically causes a rash that can start as painful, blisterlike bumps on the skin, especially on or near the genitals, the anus, and other areas such as the hands, feet, face, and chest. Monkeypox is similar to smallpox but usually less severe. While most cases are not severe, monkeypox can cause serious illness. Monkeypox is sometimes abbreviated as or alternately referred to as MPX, MPOX, MPV (for monkeypox virus), MPXV, or in other ways.

Etymology

Origin of monkeypox

First recorded in 1900–05; monkey ( def. ) + pox ( def. )

Example Sentences

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral infection characterized by a flu-like fever and rash that can last weeks.

From Barron's • Mar. 17, 2026

Since November 2024, there have been 12 reported cases of clade I monkeypox in the U.S., while clade II is “circulating at low levels,” per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

From Barron's • Mar. 17, 2026

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is primarily spread through close, intimate contact, such as through body fluids, sores, shared bedding or shared clothing, as well as kissing, coughing and sneezing, health officials say.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 16, 2025

California has reported the first US case of mpox - formerly known as monkeypox - that is part of a new outbreak.

From BBC • Nov. 16, 2024

Nigeria has received 10,000 doses of a vaccine to combat mpox, making it the first African country to receive a batch amid the current outbreak of disease that used to be called monkeypox.

From BBC • Aug. 27, 2024