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DictionarymeaslesViral disease
noun

measles

MEE-zulz/ˈmiːzlz/

A contagious viral disease causing fever and a red rash.

The woman with measles rests in bed with a fever and red rash.

An older woman resting with a fever and a visible red rash across her face, neck, and upper arms, holding a plain thermometer beside her bed.
Etymology
measleMiddle Englishlittle spot
+sEnglishplural

Middle English masel meant “little spot.” Its plural supplied the disease name, linking measles to the spots of its characteristic rash.

In context

Level Up RN0:55
Initial signs and symptoms of measles include a fever, dry cough, runny nose, and red watery eyes.
Measles, Rubella, & Mumps: Alterations in Health - Pediatric Nursing | @LevelUpRN

More examples

  • The report tracked measles cases.
  • The laboratory confirmed measles.
  • The book described the history of measles.

Forms

measles