Definition

Describing a condition that may develop into cancer or is likely to become cancerous.

Example

The doctor found a precancerous lesion during the examination.

Conversation

Did you hear about Jenna's recent check-up?

Yeah, I heard she found out she has a precancerous condition.

That's really concerning, I hope she gets the right treatment.

Me too. It's important she stays on top of it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Precancerous → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "cancer" (from Latin "cancer", meaning crab or tumor). The word "precancerous" refers to a condition that occurs before the development of cancer.

Memory Tip

Think of something that happens 'before' ('pre-') cancer ('cancer') — that's why precancerous means a state that may lead to cancer.

Visually Confused Words