Meaning & Definition of word "Cancer"
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Cancer
/ˈkæn.sɚ/
noun:
- 1. A disease caused by an uncontrolled division of abnormal cells in a part of the body.
- Example: She was diagnosed with breast cancer last year.
- 2. A malignant growth or tumor resulting from such a disease.
- Example: The doctor found a cancer in his lungs during the examination.
- 3. A person afflicted with cancer.
- Example: Many cancer patients find support groups helpful.
- 4. A zodiac sign represented by a crab, covering those born between June 21 and July 22.
- Example: As a Cancer, she is known for her emotional depth and caring nature.
Etymology
From Old French 'cancer', from Latin 'cancer', meaning 'crab', because the finger-like projections of a cancerous tumor resemble a crab's claws.
Common Phrases and Expressions
cancer survivor:
A person who has successfully fought against cancer.
fight cancer:
The act of battling against cancer through treatment.
stage of cancer:
A classification of the progression of cancer.
Related Words
carcinogen:
A substance capable of causing cancer in living tissue.
oncology:
The branch of medicine that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
tumor:
An abnormal mass of tissue that may be benign or malignant.
Slang Meanings of cancer
Meaning: A term used informally to describe something that is detrimental or harmful.
Example Sentence: That new policy is cancer for our community.
Meaning: Used to describe an overly invasive or distressing issue.
Example Sentence: The bureaucracy in this organization is cancer.