Mesothelioma

/ˌmɛzoʊˌθiliˈoʊmə/ noun

Definition

a type of cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, often caused by asbestos exposure

Etymology

from Greek mesos (middle) + thele (nipple) + -oma (tumor), referring to the mesothelial cells that line body cavities

Kelly Says

This medical term literally means 'middle nipple tumor' in Greek, referring to the nipple-like projections of the affected tissue lining.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.