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
Words nearby herpes simplex
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
[ sĭm′plĕks′ ]
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.