pockmark

[pok-mahrk]

noun

1. Usually pockmarks. scars or pits left by a pustule in smallpox or the like.

2. a small pit or scar.

   a tabletop full of pockmarks.

verb (used with object)

1. to mark or scar with or as with pockmarks.

   gopher holes pockmarking the field.

pockmark

/ ˈpɒkˌmɑːk /

noun

1. Also called: pock. a pitted scar left on the skin after the healing of a smallpox or similar pustule

2. any pitting of a surface that resembles or suggests such scars

verb

1. (tr) to scar or pit (a surface) with pockmarks

Other Word Forms

• pockmarked adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pockmark¹

First recorded in 1665–75; pock + mark ¹

Example Sentences

Decades of decline have pockmarked the city, including some now-famous failings.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

One piece depicts the moon, its surface pockmarked by craters.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

America is pockmarked by millions of oil and gas wells that petered out over decades.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The smart shops and restaurants running down to the beach are now pockmarked with shrapnel and bullet holes, the park with its French-manicured trees, is buried under grey rubble.

Read more on BBC

After 23 months of war, it now lies in ruins, pockmarked by craters, with burned-out wards and bullet holes.

Read more on BBC