What does scabies mean?
Scabies is a contagious skin infestation caused by the microscopic mite Sarcoptes scabiei. The mites burrow into the skin, causing an itchy, often crusted rash that may spread across the body and to other people through prolonged skin-to-skin contact. The condition is especially associated with infants, children, older people, and people with weakened immune systems, although anyone can develop it. Scabies is not caused by poor hygiene, and people should avoid scratching or close contact until treatment has been completed. It is generally treated with topical or oral medications and measures to prevent reinfestation, such as washing clothing and bedding. The word is also used more broadly for comparable mite infestations in animals, where it may overlap with the term mange.
nounA contagious skin infestation caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei, characterized by intense itching and a rash. It can affect humans and other animals.
- A contagious skin infestation caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei, producing intense itching and a characteristic rash.
"The child was prescribed a cream to treat scabies after the itching spread across her arms."
"The clinic confirmed that the outbreak was scabies, and everyone in close contact was advised to be treated."
"In veterinary care, sarcoptic mange is sometimes referred to as a form of scabies."
Scabies is an itch with a microscopic culprit: a mite that burrows into the skin and can make an entire household feel the consequences.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of scabies
Scabies comes from Latin scabiēs, meaning itch or mange, and ultimately relates to the Latin verb scabere, “to scratch.” The same root appears in English words such as scab and scabby, as well as in scabietic and other medical derivatives. In English, the word developed into the name of the specific contagious infestation caused by Sarcoptes scabiei.
Related word forms
How scabies is actually used
Usually used as a mass noun rather than with a plural. In medical and veterinary contexts, it denotes a condition rather than an individual case.
Easily confused with scabies
Mange is a broader term for skin disease caused by mites or other parasites, especially in animals, whereas scabies most commonly refers to the infestation caused by Sarcoptes scabiei in humans.