# leper

/ˈɫɛpɝ/ (US) · /lˈɛpɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/leper
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

a person who has a very serious skin disease called leprosy. This word is mostly used in old stories or to describe someone who is very sick and alone.

For teachers: a person afflicted with leprosy, historically subject to social isolation and exclusion. Often carries a strong archaic or literary tone in modern usage.

## Examples

- The leper was kept away from the village.
- In many medieval legends, the leper serves as a symbol of extreme suffering and social rejection.
- The protagonist's journey toward redemption is mirrored by his encounter with a leper, a figure that traditionally represents the ultimate loss of social standing and physical health.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.