herpes simplex

[ sim-pleks ]
/ ˈsɪm plɛks /

noun

either of two herpes diseases caused by a herpesvirus that infects humans and some other animals and produces small, transient blisters on the skin or mucous membranes, one type of virus (herpes simplex virus type 1, or HSV-1) usually associated with oral herpes but also causing genital herpes and the other (herpes simplex virus type 2, or HSV-2) usually causing genital herpes.

Origin of herpes simplex

1905–10; < New Latin: literally, simple herpes

British Dictionary definitions for herpes simplex

herpes simplex
/ (ˈsɪmplɛks) /

noun

an acute viral disease characterized by formation of clusters of watery blisters, esp on the margins of the lips and nostrils or on the genitals. It can be sexually transmitted and may recur fitfully

Word Origin for herpes simplex

New Latin: simple herpes

Medical definitions for herpes simplex

herpes simplex
[ sĭmplĕks′ ]

n.

A recurrent viral disease that is caused by herpesvirus type one and is marked by fluid-containing vesicles on the mouth, lips, or face; cold sore.
A recurrent viral disease that is caused by herpesvirus type two and is marked by fluid-containing vesicles on the genitals.