Definition

Noun: A severe and painful bacterial infection characterized by the formation of a pus-filled abscess (a collection of pus) in the tissue around the tonsils, typically as a complication of tonsillitis.

Usage

"Quinsy" is a medical term. It is used to describe a specific, serious throat condition. It is not a common word in everyday conversation but is standard in medical contexts.

Examples

• The patient was hospitalized with quinsy, requiring immediate drainage of the abscess.
• A persistent sore throat that worsens on one side can be a sign of quinsy.
• Quinsy is a known complication of untreated bacterial tonsillitis.

Advanced Usage

• Peritonsillar abscess: This is the more precise modern medical term synonymous with "quinsy." You might see it used in clinical notes:

Variants and Related Words

• Peritonsillar abscess (n): The formal medical term for quinsy.
• Tonsillitis (n): Inflammation of the tonsils, which can precede quinsy.
• Abscess (n): A swollen area within body tissue containing pus, which is the defining feature of quinsy.

Synonyms

• Peritonsillar abscess
• Tonsillar abscess (less specific)

Notes on Meaning

This word has one primary, specific medical meaning. It does not refer to general sore throats or mild tonsillitis, but specifically to the complication involving an abscess.

Noun

1. a painful pus filled inflammation of the tonsils and surrounding tissues; usually a complication of tonsillitis