Bescab

/bɪˈskæb/ verb

Definition

To cover with scabs or cause scabbing on a surface.

Etymology

From be- (to make or cover with) combined with scab; this archaic verb was formed through Middle English productive verb-building with the be- prefix.

Kelly Says

This grotesque verb perfectly shows how the be- prefix could attach to literally anything in Old English to make it a verb—you had besmear, besmirch, bescab—basically describing bodily damage and dirt.

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