n :  an acute contagious febrile disease caused by hemolytic bacteria of the genus Streptococcus (esp. various strains of S. pyogenes) and characterized by inflammation of the nose, throat, and mouth, generalized toxemia, and a red rash - called also scarlatina  .
 
 
 
Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.  © 1997-2024.