blister

Everyday

1. A small bubble under the skin, filled with clear liquid, caused by rubbing or burning. tree →
2. A bubble that forms on a surface such as paint or a pie crust. tree →
3. (verb) To get blisters, or to cause them. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life and safety, blisters come from new shoes, long hikes, rowing or a burn; the skin bubble protects the sore underneath. First aid: do not pop it, keep it clean and cover it with a plaster. In stories, blistered feet show how far and hard someone walked. Phrases: «get a blister», «blister plaster», «blistering heat» (very hot).

Examples

• My new shoes gave me a blister on my heel. tree →
• Don't pop a blister; cover it with a plaster. tree →
• After rowing all day, his hands were covered in blisters. tree →
• The sunburn made her shoulders blister. tree →
• The old paint had blistered in the sun. tree →
• Wear thick socks on a long hike to stop blisters. tree →
• It was a blistering hot day at the beach. tree →
• A burn from the oven left a small blister on my finger. tree →
• These you must gather even while they burn blisters on your hands. tree →

Note

Countable: a blister, blisters. Popping a blister lets germs in; leave it unless a doctor says otherwise. A big blister from a burn, or one that looks red, swollen or full of yellow pus, needs an adult or a doctor.