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.
Phrases and idioms:
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.
Derivatives:
warty adj.
Etymology: OE wearte f. Gmc