How Do You Spell RINGWORM?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈɪŋwɜːm] (IPA)

Ringworm is a skin infection caused by fungi, but its spelling doesn't suggest this. The word has a tricky phonetic transcription, as it doesn't sound like a worm, nor involve a ring. The sound in the first syllable features an "i" as in "king" followed by an "r" sound, which sounds like a "w". In the second syllable, there's a schwa sound, but spelled with an "i". Lastly, the "g" sound is hardly pronounced, sounding like a silent letter in the end.

RINGWORM Meaning and Definition

1. Ringworm is a common, highly contagious skin infection caused by various types of fungi. It is characterized by a ring-shaped rash on the skin that appears red, scaly, and itchy. Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by worms but rather by a group of fungi known as dermatophytes. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and can be found in soil, animals, and humans.

   When the fungi come into contact with the skin, they start to multiply and invade the outer layers of the skin, hair, or nails. This results in the development of the distinctive circular rash with raised edges and healthy skin in the center, resembling a worm inside a ring. The infection is commonly found on the scalp, feet (athlete's foot), groin (jock itch), or body.

   Ringworm is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person or animal, or by sharing personal items such as towels or combs. It can also be acquired by walking barefoot in contaminated areas. The condition is more prevalent in warm and humid climates.

   Treatment for ringworm typically involves the use of antifungal medications, whether topical creams, ointments, or oral tablets. Keeping the affected area clean and dry is essential to prevent the spread of the infection. Proper hygiene, avoiding sharing personal items, and wearing protective footwear in public places can help reduce the risk of contracting or spreading ringworm.

2. A vegetable parasitic disease of the skin and its appendages, tinea.

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

Common Misspellings for RINGWORM

• figgwort
• eingworm
• dingworm
• fingworm
• tingworm
• 5ingworm
• 4ingworm
• rungworm
• rjngworm
• rkngworm
• rongworm
• r9ngworm
• r8ngworm
• ribgworm
• rimgworm
• rijgworm
• rihgworm
• rinyworm
• ringorm
• ringwom
• rignworm
• lingworm
• ringburd
• Rungetworm
• Ringworms
• Rengworm

Etymology of RINGWORM

The word "ringworm" comes from the Old English word "hrycgwyrm", which meant a skin condition caused by a fungal infection. "Hrycgwyrm" is a compound of "hrycg" meaning "ring" and "wyrm" meaning "worm" or "snake". The term "ring" in the word refers to the characteristic ring-like or circular rash that appears on the infected person's skin. However, it is important to note that ringworm is not caused by a worm but rather by various types of fungi.

Similar spelling words for RINGWORM

• ring armor,
• ringer,
• Ring Armour.

Plural form of RINGWORM is RINGWORMS