Definition

A small tumor that typically occurs in the digestive system and can produce hormones like serotonin.

Example

The doctor explained that the carcinoid was causing the patient's unusual symptoms.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a carcinoid tumor?

Yeah, I think it's a type of tumor that can be found in the gut.

Right! It's interesting how it can secrete serotonin, too.

Exactly! It’s surprising how much we still learn about these things.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Carcinoid is formed from "carcino-" (from Greek "karkinos", meaning crab or cancer) and "-oid" (meaning resembling or like). The term refers to tumors that resemble cancer but are typically less aggressive than other cancers.

Memory Tip

Think of 'karkinos', which means crab, to remember that 'carcinoid' refers to tumors that are similar to cancer but often less severe.

Visually Confused Words