"Frounce" is an uncommon word that refers to a swelling or inflammation, especially in a bird's head or neck. The phonetic transcription of this word is /fraʊns/, which means it is pronounced with the vowel sound of "ou" as in "ouch". The spelling of the word is not intuitive and may be a challenge for non-native speakers or those unfamiliar with avian anatomy. However, it is important to be aware of this word and its spelling in the context of veterinary or bird-related discussions.
Frounce is a noun that describes a condition or disease mainly affecting birds, particularly poultry, characterized by inflammation and swelling of the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, and upper respiratory tract. This condition is also known by other names such as canker or thrush. Frounce is primarily caused by a protozoan parasite known as Trichomonas gallinae, which infects the bird's oral cavity and throat.
Symptoms of frounce in birds usually include white or yellowish patches or plaques in the mouth and throat, accompanied by difficulty in swallowing, loss of appetite, weight loss, and occasionally, a bad odor. Severely infected birds may also develop lesions in the upper digestive tract and respiratory system, leading to respiratory distress and sometimes death. Frounce can be transmitted from bird to bird through direct contact, contaminated water or food, and through the distribution of infected nasal and throat secretions.
To treat frounce, antiprotozoal medications such as metronidazole are usually administered to infected birds. Additionally, maintaining good hygiene and sanitation practices in the bird's living environment is important to prevent the spread of the disease.
In summary, frounce is a condition affecting birds, especially poultry, characterized by inflammation and swelling of the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat caused by a parasitic infection. Prompt identification and treatment are crucial to prevent further spread and complications.
To frizzle; to form wrinkles in or upon.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "frounce" has two possible etymological origins:
1) On one hand, "frounce" can be traced back to the Middle English word "frounen", meaning "to wrinkle" or "to frown". This Middle English term likely derived from the Old French word "froignier", which meant "to wrinkle the forehead" or "to pucker the face". Over time, "frounen" evolved into "frounce" in English, referring to a particular type of wrinkle or fold.
2) On the other hand, "frounce" can also be related to the Middle English word "frount", meaning "wrinkle" or "fold". This Middle English term possibly stems from the Old English word "frunt", which had a similar meaning.