Definition

A type of tumor that is cancerous and can spread to other parts of the body.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with a malignancy that required immediate treatment.

Conversation

Did you hear about the doctor discussing the malignancy found in that patient?

Yeah, I read something about that; it's really concerning.

I hope they can find a way to treat the malignancy effectively.

Me too, early detection is key in situations like this.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Malignancy → It is formed from "mal-" (meaning bad or evil) and "-gnancy" (from the Latin "gnare", meaning to know or recognize). The word "malignancy" refers to a state of being harmful or evil, particularly in the context of diseases like cancer.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mal-' meaning bad, and '-gnancy' relating to a state of being. This helps you remember that malignancy refers to a harmful or evil condition.

Visually Confused Words