The word "chapped" is a common English term used to describe dry or cracked skin. It is pronounced as /tʃæpt/ in IPA phonetic transcription, which means the word has two syllables. It starts with the voiceless alveolar affricate sound /tʃ/, similar to the "ch" sound in "church." The second syllable is pronounced with the short "a" sound /æ/, followed by the voiceless bilabial plosive sound /p/. The final sound is the voiceless alveolar plosive sound /t/, similar to the "t" sound in "top."
Chapped is an adjective that describes the condition of dry, rough, and cracked skin, typically on the lips or hands. It is a common problem that occurs when the skin loses its natural moisture and becomes irritated due to various factors such as cold weather, low humidity, excessive exposure to wind or sun, or frequent hand washing. Chapped skin often appears red, swollen, and painful, and may even bleed in severe cases.
The term is commonly associated with the lips, where it is referred to as chapped lips. This condition occurs when the delicate skin of the lips becomes dehydrated and loses its protective layer of natural oils. Chapped lips are characterized by dryness, peeling, and tightness, and can cause discomfort and difficulty in activities such as eating, speaking, or even smiling.
Treatment for chapped skin typically involves the regular application of moisturizing creams or balms to replenish lost moisture and restore the skin's protective barrier. It is also crucial to avoid further exposure to harsh environmental conditions and protect the affected areas from further damage. In addition to external remedies, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help improve the condition of chapped skin.
Overall, chapped refers to the uncomfortable and often painful state of skin that is dry, cracked, and irritated, particularly on the lips and hands.
Split open, cracked; noting a lesion of the skin produced by cold.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The word "chapped" has its origins in the Old English language. It is derived from the Old English word "ceap", which means "purchase" or "bargain". Over time, this term expanded in meaning to also encompass the idea of something being "cracked" or "split". From there, it eventually evolved into "chapped", specifically referring to dry and cracked skin, particularly on the lips or hands.