Definition: erysipelas

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Source: WordNet (r) 1.7 

erysipelas
     n : an acute streptococcal infection characterized by deep-red
         inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) 

Erysipelas \Er`y*sip"e*las\, n. [L., fr. Gr. 'erysi`pelas;
   'eryqro`s red + pe`lla hide, skin. See Red, and Pell, n.]
   (Med.)
   St. Anthony's fire; a febrile disease accompanied with a
   diffused inflammation of the skin, which, starting usually
   from a single point, spreads gradually over its surface. It
   is usually regarded as contagious, and often occurs
   epidemically.