ENGLISH
REFERENCE

pus

n. uncountable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈpəs// UK //pˈʌs// pus Archaic

n. a thick, yellowish or white liquid that forms in a part of the body that is infected. It is a sign that your body is fighting off germs.

n. a thick, opaque fluid produced by infected tissue, consisting of white blood cells, bacteria, and cellular debris. Typically associated with inflammation and abscess formation.


SIMPLE

The doctor cleaned the pus from the wound.

CONTEXTUAL

If you notice pus coming from a cut, it usually means the area has become infected and needs medical attention.

COMPLEX

The presence of pus within the cavity indicated a localized immune response, as neutrophils had migrated to the site to neutralize the invading pathogens.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English pus (15th c.), a borrowing from Latin pus (“pus”). Widely displaced quitter and atter in this sense.

Usage

Uncountable; often used with verbs like 'drain', 'ooze', or 'form'.

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