boils

word · lemma: boil

/ˈbɔɪɫz/
/bˈɔɪlz/

Definition

'Boils' can mean the third person singular of 'boil' (to reach the temperature where a liquid turns to gas) or a noun for painful, swollen lumps on the skin caused by infection.

Usage & Nuances

As a verb, 'boils' is present tense for he/she/it. As a noun, 'boils' refers to skin infections and is always plural. Common phrase: 'the water boils.' Don't confuse with 'boiler' (a machine).

Example Sentences

She always boils the milk before drinking it.

basic

The water boils at 100 degrees Celsius.

basic

He had two painful boils on his arm.

basic

If the soup boils over, it makes a huge mess.

natural

My patience boils away when I wait too long.

natural

He’s embarrassed to talk about the boils on his back.

natural