noun
wheal
weel
Wheal (noun) means a small, often itchy, raised bump on the skin caused by an insect bite, allergic reaction, or a blow. Example: “The mosquito bite left an itchy red wheal on his arm.”
noun
1
A small, often itchy, raised bump on the skin caused by an insect bite, allergic reaction, or a blow.
"So they gripped again until red wheals rose on their backs and shoulders by reason of the grievous clasping of their arms."
— Eric Rücker Eddison, The Worm Ouroboros: A Romance (1922)
"The mosquito bite left an itchy red wheal on his arm."
How to use wheal
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA raised, often itchy skin bump, like a hive or bite mark.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "wheel" (a round rolling device) or "weal" (well-being, or a raised welt from a whip) — all three sound alike.
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Word forms
- Plural
- wheals
- Third person singular
- wheals
- Past tense
- whealed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The mosquito bite left an itchy red _____ on his arm.
Etymology
From Middle English whele ("boil"), from Old English, related to an old word meaning "to fester or ulcerate."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for wheal
See all rhymes for wheal →Frequently asked questions
What does “wheal” mean?
The word “wheal” means a small, often itchy, raised bump on the skin caused by an insect bite, allergic reaction, or a blow. In plain terms, a raised, often itchy skin bump, like a hive or bite mark.
How do you pronounce “wheal”?
“Wheal” is pronounced weel (/wiːl/ in IPA).
How do you use “wheal” in a sentence?
Here is “wheal” used in a sentence: “The mosquito bite left an itchy red wheal on his arm.”
What part of speech is “wheal”?
“Wheal” is a noun.
Where does the word “wheal” come from?
The word “wheal” comes from Old English. From Middle English whele ("boil"), from Old English, related to an old word meaning "to fester or ulcerate.".
