Carbuncle
['kɑːbʌŋk(ə)l] or ['kɑrbʌŋkl]
Definition
(noun.) an infection larger than a boil and with several openings for discharge of pus.
(noun.) deep-red cabochon garnet cut without facets.
Typed by Carolyn--From WordNet
Definition
(n.) A beautiful gem of a deep red color (with a mixture of scarlet) called by the Greeks anthrax; found in the East Indies. When held up to the sun, it loses its deep tinge, and becomes of the color of burning coal. The name belongs for the most part to ruby sapphire, though it has been also given to red spinel and garnet.
(n.) A very painful acute local inflammation of the subcutaneous tissue, esp. of the trunk or back of the neck, characterized by brawny hardness of the affected parts, sloughing of the skin and deeper tissues, and marked constitutional depression. It differs from a boil in size, tendency to spread, and the absence of a central core, and is frequently fatal. It is also called anthrax.
(n.) A charge or bearing supposed to represent the precious stone. It has eight scepters or staves radiating from a common center. Called also escarbuncle.
Edited by Albert
Definition
n. a fiery-red precious stone: an inflamed ulcer: a pimple on the nose.—adjs. Car′buncled set with the gem carbuncle; afflicted with carbuncles: having red inflamed spots; Carbun′cular belonging to or like a carbuncle: red: inflamed.
Editor: Manuel
Examples
- You remember that the affair of the blue carbuncle, which appeared to be a mere whim at first, developed into a serious investigation. Arthur Conan Doyle. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.
- Holmes unlocked his strong-box and held up the blue carbuncle, which shone out like a star, with a cold, brilliant, many-pointed radiance. Arthur Conan Doyle. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.
- Not the Countess of Morcar's blue carbuncle! Arthur Conan Doyle. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.
Edited by Lilian