# measles

/ˈmizəɫz/ (US) · /mˈiːsəlz/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/measles
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a very infectious disease that causes a fever and small red spots on the skin. It is most common in children but can be prevented with a vaccine.

For teachers: an acute, highly contagious viral disease characterized by fever, respiratory symptoms, and a maculopapular skin rash.

## Examples

- The doctor confirmed that the child has the measles.
- Public health officials urged parents to vaccinate their children following a small outbreak of measles in the local primary school.
- While once a common childhood illness, measles has become increasingly rare in developed nations due to the widespread implementation of the MMR vaccine during early infancy.

## Pitfalls

- Not "Measles are dangerous." but "Measles is dangerous." — Like many diseases ending in 's', measles is treated as a singular noun in standard English.

## Usage notes

- Usually takes a singular verb despite the plural-looking 's' ending.

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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.