How Do You Spell CANKER SORE?

Pronunciation: [kˈaŋkə sˈɔː] (IPA)

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small and painful lesions that occur inside the mouth, on the gums or tongue. The spelling of the word "canker sore" can be explained by using IPA phonetic transcription: /ˈkæŋkər sɔr/. The "a" in "canker" is pronounced as [æ], the "ng" as [ŋ], the "k" as [k], the "er" as [ə], and the "sore" is pronounced as [sɔr]. Canker sores can be caused by various factors, including stress, certain foods, and hormonal changes.

CANKER SORE Meaning and Definition

1. A canker sore, medically known as aphthous stomatitis, is a small and painful ulcer or sore that forms inside the mouth. These sores typically appear as round or oval-shaped open lesions with a white or yellowish-grayish center, surrounded by a red inflamed border. While canker sores are not contagious, they can cause considerable discomfort, especially when eating, drinking or speaking.

   Canker sores can occur anywhere within the oral cavity, including the inner surface of the cheeks, lips, gums, and underneath the tongue. They are often characterized by a burning or tingling sensation a day or two before the sore becomes visible. The exact cause of canker sores is still unknown, but factors such as stress, trauma, hormonal changes, weakened immune system, and certain food sensitivities or allergies may trigger their formation.

   These ulcers typically heal on their own within one to two weeks, although larger or more painful sores may take longer to resolve. Over-the-counter topical treatments such as numbing gels or mouthwashes can help alleviate symptoms and promote faster healing. Maintaining oral hygiene and avoiding hot, spicy, or acidic foods that may irritate the sore can also aid in the healing process.

   It is important to distinguish canker sores from other mouth sores, such as cold sores (caused by the herpes simplex virus). Canker sores are not caused by a virus, and they appear exclusively inside the mouth, whereas cold sores are usually found on or around the lips.

Common Misspellings for CANKER SORE

• cankersore

Etymology of CANKER SORE

The term "canker sore" originates from Middle English and Old English. The word "canker" stems from the Old English word "cancrē", which derived from the Old English "cancer", meaning "spreading sore" or "ulcer". The term was originally used to describe various types of sores or ulcers, including those that occur inside the mouth. Over time, "canker sore" specifically came to refer to painful ulcers that develop inside the mouth or on the tongue or gums.

Plural form of CANKER SORE is CANKER SORES