A tumour.
Greek onkos, mass.
Oncology is the study and treatment of tumours; something oncogenic causes development of a tumour; an oncogene is a gene which in certain circumstances can transform a cell into a tumour cell; oncolysis is the destruction of a tumour, usually in response to treatment; the adjective relating to tumours is oncotic, but it can also refer to an increase in volume or pressure. See also ‑oma.
Copyright © Michael Quinion 2008–. All rights reserved. Your comments are very welcome.