Meaning & Definition of word "Carcinogenic"
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Carcinogenic
/ˌkɑːrsəˈnəʤənɪk/
adjective:
- 1. Having the potential to cause cancer.
- Example: Asbestos is recognized as a carcinogenic substance that poses severe health risks to workers.
- 2. Referring to agents or factors that can induce carcinogenesis.
- Example: Certain chemicals found in tobacco smoke are classified as carcinogenic.
- 3. Describing any material or exposure that is associated with an increased risk of cancer.
- Example: The study found that prolonged exposure to UV radiation is carcinogenic and can lead to skin cancer.
- 4. Characterizing environments that may lead to cancer development.
- Example: Living near industrial areas can increase your risk due to exposure to carcinogenic pollutants.
Etymology
From the word 'carcinogen', which is derived from the Greek word 'karkinos' meaning 'cancer' and the suffix '-genic' meaning 'producing' or 'causing'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
carcinogenic substances:
Substances that can cause cancer.
potentially carcinogenic:
Possibly capable of causing cancer.
carcinogenic risk:
The risk associated with exposure to carcinogenic agents.
Related Words
carcinogen:
A substance capable of causing cancer in living tissue.
tumor:
An abnormal growth of tissue which may be benign or malignant.
malignancy:
The quality of being aggressive or harmful in terms of health.
Slang Meanings of carcinogenic
Meaning: Cancer stick (referring to cigarettes)
Example Sentence: Those cancer sticks are known to be highly carcinogenic.
Meaning: Death in a bottle (referring to dangerous chemicals)
Example Sentence: Don't use that cleaner; it’s death in a bottle because it’s carcinogenic.