A*re"o*la (#), n.; pl. Areolae (#). [L. areola, dim. of area: cf. F. ar'eole. See Area.]
1.
An interstice or small space, as between the cracks of the surface in certain crustaceous lichens; or as between the fibers composing organs or vessels that interlace; or as between the nervures of an insect's wing.
2. Anat. & Med.
The colored ring around the nipple, or around a vesicle or pustule.
© Webster 1913.