scurvySCUR'VY, n. [from scurf; scurvy for scurfy; Low L. scorbutus.] A disease characterized by great debility, a pale bloated face, bleeding spongy gums, large livid tumors on the body, offensive breath, aversion to exercise, oppression at the breast or difficult respiration, a smooth, dry, shining skin, &c.; a disease most incident to persons who live confined, or on salted meats without fresh vegetables in cold climates. SCUR'VY, a. 1. Scurfy; covered or affected by scurf or scabs; scabby; diseased with scurvy. 2. Vile; mean; low; vulgar; worthless; contemptible; as a scurvy fellow. He spoke scurvy and provoking terms. Shak. That scurvy custom of taking tobacco. Swift. |