How Do You Spell SCROFULOUS?

Pronunciation: [skɹˈɒfjʊləs] (IPA)

The word "scrofulous" is often misspelled due to its unusual pronunciation. The correct spelling is s-k-r-ə-f-y-l-ə-s, with the emphasis on the second syllable. The word is derived from the Latin word "scrofula", which means "king's evil", a disease that was thought to be cured by the touch of a monarch. The IPA phonetic transcription of "scrofulous" is /ˈskrɒfjʊləs/, which breaks down to "sk" for the initial consonant blend, "r" as the second consonant, and "o" followed by "u" for the vowel sound in the stressed syllable.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Similar spelling words
Basic Check Advanced Check

SCROFULOUS Meaning and Definition

  1. Scrofulous is an adjective that is used to describe someone or something affected by scrofula, a form of tuberculosis that primarily affects the lymph nodes in the neck. However, the term has evolved and is now used metaphorically to describe characteristics or attributes associated with someone who is contemptible, morally corrupt, or diseased.

    In its original medical sense, scrofulous refers to individuals suffering from swollen, disfigured lymph nodes, often accompanied by sores or skin lesions. These physical manifestations are typically associated with weakened immune systems, malnutrition, or poor living conditions. Historically, it was believed that the touch of a king or queen had the power to cure scrofula, leading to a practice known as the "royal touch."

    Metaphorically, scrofulous can be used to describe individuals who exhibit behavior or attitudes that are morally corrupt, malignant, or detrimental. This could include people who engage in deceitful practices, harbor ill intentions, or display unethical behavior. It may also refer to things or situations that are of poor quality, filthy, or diseased.

    The usage of scrofulous is primarily found in literature, where it is employed to create vivid imagery and portray characters with negative traits. Due to its strong connotations, the term is often laden with negative judgment and carries an element of disdain or repulsion.

  2. Relating to or suffering from scrofula.

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

  3. Diseased or affected with scrofula, or pert. to it.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for SCROFULOUS

Etymology of SCROFULOUS

The word "scrofulous" originates from the Latin term "scrofula", which referred to a medical condition. In Latin, "scrofula" meant "a kind of swelling in the neck". This term was derived from the Latin noun "scrofa", which meant "a breeding sow". The association with sows came from the belief that the skin disease was transmitted from milk from infected swine, thus leading to the term "scrofula". Over time, "scrofulous" expanded to describe various symptoms associated with this condition, such as a weakened or sickly appearance. Nowadays, "scrofulous" is primarily used to describe a person's moral or physical state, suggesting a state of degeneracy or depravity.

Similar spelling words for SCROFULOUS