What does ringworm mean?
Ringworm is a common name for a contagious fungal infection affecting the skin, scalp, or nails. It often produces an itchy, scaly rash with a raised, ring-like border and a clearer center, although the appearance can vary. The condition is caused by dermatophyte fungi rather than by an actual worm, which explains both its name and the persistent misconception around it. Ringworm can spread through skin-to-skin contact, shared towels or clothing, or contact with contaminated surfaces and animals. In medical writing, it may be called tinea, with terms such as “tinea corporis” for the body and “tinea capitis” for the scalp. Antifungal creams are commonly used for limited infections, while more extensive or scalp infections may require other treatments.
nounA contagious fungal infection of the skin, scalp, or nails, typically appearing as an itchy, scaly, ring-shaped rash. The name refers to the lesion's circular appearance; ringworm is caused by fungi, not by worms.
- A contagious fungal infection of the skin, scalp, or nails, characterized by an itchy, scaly, ring-shaped rash.
- The fungus responsible for the infection.
"The pharmacist recommended an antifungal cream for the ringworm on her arm."
"Children are often warned not to share towels or clothing because ringworm can spread easily."
"The doctor examined the athlete's foot before confirming that it was ringworm."
The plural is used when referring to multiple cases of the infection or to several affected people or areas.
"The school nurse checked for ringworms after several students developed itchy patches."
Ringworm is named for its circular rash, but there is no worm involved: it is a fungal infection that can spread through direct contact or contaminated objects.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does ringworm come from?
The word dates from the Middle English period and is a compound of “ring” and “worm.” “Ring” refers to the roughly circular shape of the typical rash, while “worm” preserves an older description of the infection based on its appearance rather than its actual cause. Modern medicine established that ringworm results from fungal organisms, not parasitic worms.
How ringworm is actually used
In medical contexts, “tinea” is often used as the formal term, with the affected area specified, as in “tinea corporis” or “tinea capitis.” The word is used for both the infection and, less commonly, the fungus that causes it.