blister
UK[ˈblɪstə]US[ˈblɪstər]
n
A small bubble on the skin filled with fluid and caused by friction, burning, or other damage.
n
A similar raised area, often filled with air, on a surface such as painted wood or a plastic sheet.
v
To form or cause to form blisters.
Etymology
The word 'blister' entered English in the 13th century from Old French, carrying its core meaning of a fluid-filled swelling on the skin. While its ultimate origin is obscure, a plausible connection exists to Germanic roots related to 'blowing' or 'inflating', such as the Old Norse blastr. This etymological link provides a vivid, logical image: a blister is conceptually a small, inflated sac on the body's surface. Over centuries, its application broadened metaphorically to describe any similar raised, bubble-like flaw on manufactured surfaces, solidifying its modern semantic range.
Analysis
The word 'blister' is a simplex form. It likely originates from Old French blestre, blostre, meaning a swelling or pustule. Its ultimate origin is uncertain but may be Germanic, possibly related to Old Norse blastr, meaning a blowing or blast, hinting at the idea of an inflated swelling.
Examples
New shoes often give me a blister on my heel.
The intense heat caused the paint on the shed to blister and peel.
This protective tape helps prevent blisters during long hikes.