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smallpox

smallpox

Noun

Smallpox is treated as an uncountable noun in medical and general contexts. It refers to the disease as a whole rather than individual instances of the illness, meaning it does not take a plural form and cannot be counted with numbers.

In modern usage, the term is almost exclusively encountered in historical or medical contexts due to its global eradication. It carries a heavy connotation of severity and dread, reflecting its historical status as one of the deadliest diseases in human history.

Meanings

Nounsmallpox

An acute, contagious infectious disease caused by the variola virus, characterized by high fever and a distinctive skin rash of pustules that often leave permanent scars.

The World Health Organization declared smallpox eradicated in 1980.

Examples

Smallpox was officially declared eradicated by the WHO in 1980.

History

The patient showed classic symptoms of smallpox including high fever and pustules.

Health

Edward Jenner developed the first vaccine to prevent smallpox.

History

I wonder if people in the past lived in constant fear of smallpox.

Smallpox caused widespread devastation across many continents for centuries.

History

We must ensure that smallpox remains eradicated to prevent a future outbreak.

Health

Did you know that smallpox often left permanent scars on the skin?

Trivia

The virus that causes smallpox is known as variola.

Health

The city was placed under strict quarantine to stop the spread of smallpox.

History

Last Updated: May 2026•Report an Error