Malignancy

/məˈlɪɡnənsi/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The quality or state of being malign; harmfulness, especially in terms of disease, specifically referring to cancerous growths.
The doctor diagnosed her condition as a malignancy, indicating that it was a serious and potentially life-threatening disease.
A malignant tumor or cancer.
After a thorough examination, the biopsy revealed that the tumor was a malignancy that required immediate treatment.
Malicious behavior or intention.
The malignancy of his actions became evident when he sabotaged his colleague's project out of jealousy.

Etymology

Late Middle English from Old French malignance, from Latin malignus 'malignant'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

malignancy of the situation
The harmful nature or severity of the situation.
malignant tumor
A tumor that is harmful and cancerous.
display malignancy
To show malevolent intentions or actions.

Related Words

malignant
Having the quality of being very virulent or infectious.
malice
The intention or desire to do evil or harm.

Slang Meanings