How Do You Spell EPHELIS?

Pronunciation: [ˈɛfɪlˌiz] (IPA)

The word "ephelis" is a medical term that refers to a freckle or flat, pigmented spot on the skin. Its spelling is based on the ancient Greek word "ephelīs" (ἐφηλίς) which means "freckle" or "mole". The IPA phonetic transcription of "ephelis" is /ɪˈfiːlɪs/, where the stress is on the second syllable. The "ph" combination sounds like "f" and the final "s" is pronounced as a voiceless "s" sound. Understanding the spelling and pronunciation of "ephelis" can be helpful for individuals studying dermatology or other medical fields.

EPHELIS Meaning and Definition

1. Ephelis refers to a common term used in dermatology and the study of skin conditions. It refers to a small, flat, and light brown pigmented spot or freckle that appears on the skin. These spots are typically harmless and appear in varying sizes and numbers, often concentrated on areas of the skin that are exposed to sunlight.

   Characterized by their temporary nature, ephelis is the result of an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin coloration. This overproduction occurs due to the activation of melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or artificial sources like tanning beds. Ephelis affects individuals of all skin tones, but those with lighter skin tones are more prone to developing freckles.

   The appearance of ephelis is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. It is believed to have a genetic predisposition and often tends to run in families. Exposure to sunlight and fairer complexion increase the likelihood of developing ephelis. Although generally harmless, ephelis can indicate increased vulnerability to sun damage and a higher risk of developing skin cancer, especially when numerous freckles are present.

   While some individuals may embrace their freckles as natural characteristics, others may seek treatments or use cosmetic products to minimize their appearance. Sun protection measures, such as using sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF), wearing protective clothing, and avoiding excessive sun exposure, are recommended to prevent the development or worsening of ephelis.

2. Lentigo, a freckle.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for EPHELIS

• aphelis
• ephlis
• ephulis
• wphelis
• sphelis
• dphelis
• rphelis
• 4phelis
• 3phelis
• eohelis
• elhelis
• e-helis
• e0helis
• epgelis
• epbelis
• epnelis
• epjelis
• epuelis
• epyelis
• ephwlis

Etymology of EPHELIS

The word "ephelis" is derived from the Greek word "ephelis" (ἐφήλις), meaning "freckle" or "skin spot". It ultimately comes from the Greek verb "ephellein" (ἐφέλλειν), which means "to cause spots". This Greek root gave rise to the Latin word "ephelis" before being adopted into English, primarily in the field of dermatology.

Plural form of EPHELIS is EPHELIDES