Pronunciation: [pˈɒks] (IPA) 
The word "pocks" is spelled with a "ck" at the end instead of a traditional "x" because it is a mutated form of the word "pox." In IPA phonetic transcription, "pocks" is pronounced as [pɑks]. The "p" sound is followed by an "ah" sound, indicated by the symbol "ɑ" and then the "ks" sound represented by the phonetic symbols "k" and "s." This word usually refers to the marks or scars left by a disease such as smallpox.
Pocks, in the context of medicine, refer to small, raised lesions or sores that develop on the skin as a result of certain viral or bacterial infections. These sores typically form a distinct depression or pit in the center, giving them a pitted appearance. The term "pocks" is often used in the plural form, and it can be seen in medical descriptions such as "chickenpox," "smallpox" or "syphilis pocks."
Pocks are commonly associated with highly contagious diseases caused by viruses, particularly the varicella-zoster virus responsible for chickenpox. The lesions usually start as small red bumps, which develop into fluid-filled blisters that eventually rupture, leaving behind crusted scabs. Pocks can be itchy, painful, and are typically distributed across different parts of the body.
Smallpox, another viral infection, is known to cause severe pocks that often result in significant scarring, and in many cases, can be fatal. Syphilis, a sexually transmitted bacterial infection, may also lead to the formation of pocks, known as syphilis pocks, typically appearing on the palms of hands or soles of feet.
In summary, pocks are skin lesions characterized by elevated areas with central depressions or pits, commonly caused by certain viral or bacterial infections. They are often contagious and may result in scarring, discomfort, and other symptoms, depending on the underlying cause.
The word "pocks" is derived from the Middle English word "pokkes" or "pokis", which was a plural form of "pok" or "poke". These terms were used to refer to a pustule or blister. The term "pok" itself originated from the Old English word "pocc", which had a similar meaning. The word "pocks" is commonly associated with the disease smallpox, as the term was widely used to describe the pustules that appear on the skin during the infection.
