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cancer

can·cer [ kánssər ] (plural can·cers)


noun 
Definition:
 
1. malignant tumor: a malignant tumor or growth caused when cells multiply uncontrollably, destroying healthy tissue. The different forms are sarcomas, carcinomas, leukemias, and lymphomas.

2. illness caused by tumor: the illness or condition that is caused by the presence of a malignant tumor

3. fast-spreading bad phenomenon: something, usually something negative, that develops or spreads quickly and usually destructively

4. construction gradual destruction of building material: gradual erosion or damage occurring in building materials, believed to be caused by inherent manufacturing faults
concrete cancer

[Pre-12th century. < Latin, literally "crab"]

can·cer·ous adjective
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