zoster

noun

zos·​ter ˈzä-stər How to pronounce zoster (audio)

Examples of zoster in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One example is shingles, which is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus behind chickenpox. Cassie Shortsleeve, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Apr. 2026 The varicella-zoster virus spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact with fluid from the blisters or by breathing in particles from them. Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 29 Apr. 2026 The infection is caused by the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus behind chickenpox. Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Apr. 2026 Shingles is a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus that causes chicken pox. Ashley Milne-Tyte, NPR, 6 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for zoster

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin zōstēr, borrowed from Greek zōstḗr "belt, girdle, shingles," from zōs-, base of zṓnnȳmi, aorist ézōsa "(I) gird(ed)" + -tēr, suffix of instruments — more at zone entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1706, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of zoster was circa 1706

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Cite this Entry

“Zoster.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/zoster. Accessed 3 May. 2026.

Medical Definition

zoster

noun
zos·​ter ˈzäs-tər How to pronounce zoster (audio)

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