1. A chronic infectious disease caused by bacteria that affects the skin and nerves, characterized by lesions and loss of sensation.
Usage: Medical term; also called Hansen's disease in modern medical contexts
2. A condition or quality regarded as morally or socially repulsive or corrupting.
Usage: Figurative or metaphorical use

Examples

• Leprosy is now treatable with antibiotics and is rare in developed countries.
• The disease leprosy has affected human populations for thousands of years.
• Early diagnosis of leprosy can prevent serious complications.
• In medieval times, people with leprosy were often isolated from society.
• The figurative use of leprosy describes corruption spreading through an institution like a disease.