Vocabulary Spotlight
Callus
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: A thickened or hardened part of the skin or tissue, usually resulting from repeated friction or pressure.
“The guitarist developed a callus on his fingertips from hours of practice.”
Pronunciation
[kal-uhs]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Hard skin
Thickening
Blister
Callosity
Antonyms
Tenderness
Sensitivity
Smoothness
Delicacy
Related Words
Keratin (noun)
Hardened (adjective)
Word Origin
The word “callus” comes from the Latin “callum,” meaning “hard skin.” It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe a patch of hardened skin that forms in response to pressure or friction.
Word Family
Noun: Callus – A thickened part of skin or tissue.
Verb: Callus – To develop thickened skin in response to friction.
Related Adjective: Callused – Having hardened skin, especially on the hands or feet.
Mnemonics
Constant Abrasion Leads to Long-lasting Unusual Skin
This mnemonic highlights that calluses form due to continuous friction or pressure on the skin.
Industry-specific Usage
Sports
In sports, athletes develop calluses on their hands or feet due to repeated physical activities, like weightlifting or running.
Music
Musicians, especially guitarists, often develop calluses on their fingertips from pressing strings, which help reduce sensitivity over time.
Medicine
In medicine, calluses are examined to ensure they aren’t painful or problematic, especially if they interfere with movement or cause discomfort.
In Context
In everyday life, people who frequently use their hands for tasks, such as gardening, often develop calluses that protect the skin from injury.
In craftsmanship, workers develop calluses over time, which provide natural protection for their hands during repetitive tasks.
In athletics, calluses on the feet help protect athletes from blisters and other friction-related issues during rigorous activities.