Meaning & Definition of word "Cancer"

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.