Definition of SCROFULA

scrofula

Meanings

Plural: scrofulae, scrofulas, scrofulæ

Noun

  • a form of tuberculosis characterized by swellings of the lymphatic glands
  • A form of tuberculosis, most common in women 30-40 years of age, tending to cause enlarged and degenerated lymph nodes, especially in the neck, and often chronic, intractable skin inflammation as well.

Origin / Etymology

Borrowed from Latin scrōfulae, a diminutive form of scrōfa (“breeding sow”), because swine were supposed to be subject to the complaint; or by fanciful comparison of the glandular swellings to little pigs.

Synonyms

king's evil, scrofulosis, struma

Scrabble Score: 13

scrofula is a valid Scrabble (US) TWL word
scrofula is a valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
scrofula is a valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 16

scrofula is a valid Words With Friends word