n. 1 a small hardish roundish growth on the skin caused by a virus-induced abnormal growth of papillae and thickening of the epidermis. 2 a protuberance on the skin of an animal, surface of a plant, etc. 3 colloq. an objectionable person. wart-hog an African wild pig of the genus Phacochoerus, with a large head and warty lumps on its face, and large curved tusks. warts and all colloq. with no attempt to conceal blemishes or inadequacies. warty adj.
[ OE wearte f. Gmc ]