Meaning & Definition of word "Melanoma"

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    Melanoma

    /ˌmɛləˈnoʊmə/

    noun:

    • 1. A type of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes, which are the cells that produce the pigment melanin.
      • Example: After noticing a suspicious mole, she went to the dermatologist and was diagnosed with melanoma.
    • 2. Melanoma can be highly aggressive and has the potential to spread to other parts of the body.
      • Example: He learned that early detection is crucial in successfully treating melanoma.
    • 3. There are different types of melanoma, including superficial spreading melanoma, nodular melanoma, and acral lentiginous melanoma.
      • Example: The doctor explained the various forms of melanoma and how they differ in their development.
    • 4. Exposure to UV radiation can increase the risk of developing melanoma.
      • Example: Protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure can help reduce the risk of melanoma.
    • 5. Melanoma is more likely to occur in individuals with lighter skin types.
      • Example: The study showed a correlation between skin type and the incidence of melanoma.

    Etymology

    Derived from the Greek word 'melas' meaning 'black' and 'oma' meaning 'tumor'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    early detection of melanoma:

    Identifying melanoma in its initial stages to improve treatment outcomes.

    melanoma awareness:

    Efforts and campaigns to educate the public about melanoma prevention and treatment.

    Related Words

    melanocyte:

    A cell that produces the pigment melanin, found in the skin.

    pigmentation:

    The coloring of the skin, which may be affected by melanoma.

    Slang Meanings of melanoma

    Meaning: Skin cancer

    Example Sentence: He called it 'the bad skin thing,' referencing melanoma.

    Meaning: The dark mole

    Example Sentence: She was worried about that dark mole on her arm, just a melanoma waiting to happen.