Gumma

/ˈɡʌmə/ noun

Definition

A soft tumor or lesion in the body, especially one characteristic of tertiary syphilis, formed by gum-like tissue growth.

Etymology

From Latin 'gumma' (gum), used in medical terminology; describes the soft, gum-like appearance of these tissue masses under microscopic examination.

Kelly Says

The term 'gumma' comes from medicine's historical practice of naming diseases by appearance—these soft lesions literally looked gummy to doctors examining syphilis patients.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.