as in blisters
a small, inflamed swelling of the skin
smallpox's characteristic pustules typically resulted in permanent scarring for survivors of the dreaded disease
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Recent Examples of pustules
In fact, one of the most common triggers of rosacea, which is characterized by flushing, swelling, spider veins, papules, and pustules, is exposure to sunlight.
—
Sherri Gordon, Health, 15 Sep. 2025
Research suggests that pimple patches aren't effective on cystic acne, pustules, or blackheads.
—Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 9 Sep. 2025
Sherri Gordon, Health, 15 Sep. 2025
Research suggests that pimple patches aren't effective on cystic acne, pustules, or blackheads.
—Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 9 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pustules
Noun
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In the rearview mirror, my reflection was dotted with fat, angry pimples, sweating and growing more aggressive in their itch.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
27 Mar. 2026
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This year, Select editors got ahead of any surprise pimples by investigating the difference between skin purging and breakouts, researching the best over-the-counter topicals for teen acne, and asking dermatologists the best blackhead treatments for acne-prone skin.—
David Hickey,
NBC news,
17 Mar. 2026
Noun
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The soot becomes dust that covers humans and animals, producing festering boils.—
Encyclopedia Britannica,
Encyclopedia Britannica,
31 Mar. 2026
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Don’t be tempted to take an earlier exit, even though signs along I-10 will boast the finest boils in the state.—
Alana Al-Hatlani,
Southern Living,
14 Mar. 2026
Noun
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Temperature swings, from a hot shower or very cold air, may intensify or cause the formation of new welts.—
Zia Sherrell,
Health,
7 Mar. 2026
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Tonges exited with an orthopedic walking boot on his right foot while Purdy, dressing at his locker, had a white bandage wrapped around his left knee and red welts on his back.—
Eric Branch,
San Francisco Chronicle,
17 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Pustules.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pustules. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.
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