car·bun·cle / ˈkärˌbəngkəl/ • n. 1. a severe abscess or multiple boil in the skin, typically infected with staphylococcus bacteria.2. a bright red gem, in particular a garnet cut en cabochon.DERIVATIVES: car·bun·cu·lar / kärˈbəngkyələr/ adj.

Carbuncle

In ancient belief this stone was supposed to give out a natural light without reflection; it was ranked fifth in value after diamonds, emeralds, opals, and pearls. It is among the gems ruled by the sun and is both male and female—the former distinguished by the brightness that appears to burn within it, and the latter by the light it throws off. It takes no color from any other gem applied to it, but imparts its own. The virtue of the carbuncle was said to be its power to drive away poisonous air, repress luxury, and preserve the health of the body. It was also supposed to reconcile differences among friends.

carbuncle fiery-coloured precious stone XIII; inflammatory tumour XVI. The early forms present several types — OF. c(h)arbu(n)cle (mod. escarboucle) :- L. carbunculus small coal, carbuncle stone, red tumour, dim. of carbō coal (cf. CARBON); later assim. to L.

carbuncle (kar-bung-kŭl) n. a collection of boils with multiple drainage channels. The infection is usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus and may result in an extensive slough of skin.