dishpan hands

noun

plural in form but singular or plural in construction
: a condition of dryness, redness, and scaling of the hands that results typically from repeated exposure to, sensitivity to, or overuse of cleaning materials (such as detergents) used especially in housework

Word History

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dishpan hands was in 1944

Dictionary Entries Near dishpan hands

Cite this Entry

“Dishpan hands.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dishpan%20hands. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Medical Definition

dishpan hands

noun, plural in form but singular or plural in construction
dish·​pan hands ˈdish-ˌpan- How to pronounce dishpan hands (audio)
: irritant contact dermatitis of the hands that is marked by dry, red, and scaly skin and results from repeated exposure to cleaning materials (as detergents) typically used in housework
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