eczema

noun

ec·​ze·​ma ig-ˈzē-mə  ˈeg-zə-mə  ˈek-sə- 

: an inflammatory condition of the skin characterized by redness, itching, and oozing vesicular lesions which become scaly, crusted, or hardened

eczematous

ig-ˈze-mə-təs 

adjective

Examples of eczema in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

It’s also accepted by the National Eczema Association, which means it’s been vetted to meet strict standards for products that minimize irritation and are safe for eczema-prone skin. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 28 Apr. 2026

Brilliant for sensitive or eczema-prone skin, and ideal to wear on long-haul flights, this ultra-fine ceramide mist actually hydrates the skin. —Anita Bhagwandas, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Apr. 2026

The American Academy of Dermatology notes that polyester and synthetic fibers can directly trigger eczema flares, per Medical News Today’s breakdown of eczema-safe fabrics. —Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 21 Apr. 2026

For people with skin conditions like acne or eczema, the fabric choice is worth taking seriously. —Allison Palmer, Sacbee.com, 21 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin, borrowed from Greek ékzema, from ekze-, stem of ekzéō, ekzeîn "to boil over, (of disease) break out" (from ek- ec- + zeîn "to boil, seethe") + -ma, resultative noun suffix — more at yeast entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1753, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

eczema

noun

ec·​ze·​ma ig-ˈzē-mə  ˈeg-zə-mə 

ˈek-sə-

: a skin disease marked by redness, itching, and scaly or crusty lesions

Medical Definition

eczema

noun

ec·​ze·​ma ig-ˈzē-mə  ˈeg-zə-mə  ˈek-sə- 

: an inflammatory condition of the skin characterized by redness, itching, and oozing vesicular lesions which become scaly, crusted, or hardened

eczematous

ig-ˈzem-ət-əs 

adjective