ulcer

noun

ul·​cer ˈəl-sər How to pronounce ulcer (audio)
1
: a break in skin or mucous membrane with loss of surface tissue, disintegration and necrosis of epithelial tissue, and often pus
2
: something that festers and corrupts like an open sore
ulcer verb

Examples of ulcer 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.
While the wounds mostly seemed to heal, an ulcer formed on his right shin. — Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 9 June 2026 There is an antidote for recluse bites, but severe ulcers may need surgery. — Eva Flowe may 28, Charlotte Observer, 28 May 2026 If left untreated, the affected tissue surrounding the bite dies and sloughs off the body, leaving behind an ulcer. — Rae Ford, Martha Stewart, 5 July 2026 Mifepristone can be used to treat a hormonal condition called Cushing’s disease, and misoprostol is approved to treat stomach ulcers. — Dara Kass, The Conversation, 26 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for ulcer

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin ulcer-, ulcus; akin to Greek helkos wound

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ulcer was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing ulcer

Rhymes for ulcer

See All Rhymes for ulcer

Browse Nearby Words

ULCC
ulcer
ulcerate
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ulcer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ulcer. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

ulcer

noun
ul·​cer ˈəl-sər How to pronounce ulcer (audio)
: a slow-healing open sore in which tissue breaks down

Medical Definition

ulcer

1 of 2 noun
ul·​cer ˈəl-sər How to pronounce ulcer (audio)
: a break in skin or mucous membrane with loss of surface tissue, disintegration and necrosis of epithelial tissue, and often pus
a stomach ulcer

ulcer

2 of 2 verb
ulcered; ulcering ˈəls-(ə-)riŋ How to pronounce ulcer (audio)
: ulcerate

More from Merriam-Webster on ulcer

Nglish: Translation of ulcer for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about ulcer

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