cancer

can-cer · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A serious disease caused by cells that divide and grow uncontrollably, forming malignant tumors.

  2. 2.

    (Capitalized) The fourth sign of the zodiac, represented by a crab.

  3. 3.

    (Figurative) Something evil or destructive that spreads.

Forms

plural: cancers

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    cancer survivor — someone who has recovered from cancer
  • •
    fight cancer — to undergo treatment or support cancer research

Related words

See also: chemotherapy, oncology, tumor
Synonyms: carcinoma, malignancy, tumor

Etymology

From Latin cancer meaning "crab," used by ancient physicians who observed that tumors with swollen veins resembled crabs. The zodiac sign also derives from the crab constellation.