Cancer

Definition

Cancer is a noun that refers to a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. If not controlled, it can result in death. It may also refer to a constellation in astrology, and it’s the fourth sign of the zodiac, symbolized by the crab.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkænsər/
• Respelling: KAN-sər

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkænsə/
• Respelling: KAN-suh

Etymology

The word "cancer" originates from the Latin "cancer," meaning "crab," likely because the shape of some tumors with swollen veins reminded early physicians of a crab. In ancient Greek, "karkinos" (meaning "crab") was also used by Hippocrates in descriptions of the disease.

Derivatives

• Cancerous (adjective)
• Carcinogenic (adjective)
• Carcinoma (noun)
• Oncogenesis (noun)
• Anticancer (adjective)

Synonyms

• Malignancy
• Neoplasm
• Tumor

Antonyms

• Health
• Remission
• Wellness

Usage

The term "cancer" is widely used in medical contexts to refer to a disease where abnormal cells grow uncontrollably. For example, "She was diagnosed with skin cancer," or "Research in cancer treatment has made significant progress."

Related Terms

• Oncology: The branch of medicine dealing with cancer.
• Carcinogen: A substance capable of causing cancer.
• Tumor: An abnormal mass of tissue that may be benign or malignant.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A disease characterized by the uncontrolled division of abnormal cells: Refers to a medical condition where cells grow uncontrollably, forming malignant tumors that may invade nearby tissues or spread to other parts of the body.
  • Example: "Lung cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide."
• A constellation and zodiac sign: In astrology, Cancer is the fourth sign of the zodiac, represented by the crab.
  • Example: "People born under the sign of Cancer are said to be sensitive and empathetic."