Nevus (plural: nevi) is the medical term for a mole. Nevi are very common. Most people have between 10 and 40. Common nevi are harmless collections of colored cells. They typically appear as small brown, tan, or pink spots. You can be born with moles or develop them later.

Nearly everyone has at least one mole — the medical term is “ nevus ” — a flat or raised colored spot on the skin. These spots (“nevi”) are created when skin pigment cells called melanocytes assemble into clusters. A mole can appear anywhere on your body, and new moles can appear into your 40s.

Nevus is the medical term for mole. When your dermatologist is talking about two or more moles, you may hear the word "nevi." Atypical moles (or nevi) are often: Larger than an eraser on the end of a pencil. Have an odd shape (not round). Show more than one color—mixes of tan, brown, red, and pink.