cancer

/ˈkæːnsə/noun

An illness in which cells in part of the body begin to grow and multiply out of control.

Example sentences

“Doctors found her cancer early, so the treatment was very successful.”
“Wearing sunscreen every day helps protect you against skin cancer.”

Capitalized, it is also a zodiac sign and constellation. The figurative use, "a cancer on the organization", is strong and best used sparingly.

Synonyms for cancer

malignancy

Related words

diabetesA long-term disease in which the body cannot properly control the amount of sugar in the blood.tumorA lump of tissue that grows abnormally in the body; it can be harmless or cancerous.asthmaA chronic breathing disorder in which the airways can suddenly tighten, often triggered by allergens, cold air, exercise, or stress.malignantDescribing a tumor or disease that is cancerous, grows quickly, and can spread to other parts of the body.migraineA very painful headache, typically on one side of the head, that can come with sickness and sensitivity to light.benignNot cancerous; describing a growth or condition that will not spread or threaten your health.