Definition of Papules

Papules: Small solid rounded bumps rising from the skin that are each usually less than 1 centimeter in diameter (less than 3/8 inch across).

The term "papule" is derived from Latin from "papula," a pimple.

Dermatologists call any small solid circumscribed bump in the skin a papule, as opposed to a vesicle which contains fluid or a macule which is flat and even with the surrounding skin.