Biopsy
/ˈbaɪ.ɒp.si/noun
A medical procedure involving the removal of tissue for examination.
Did you know?The concept of a biopsy dates back to ancient Greece, where physicians would examine tissue to discern health from disease, invoking a mystical connection between body and spirit.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
βίος (bios)
“life”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ὄψις (opsis)
“view or sight”
19th Century
English
biopsy
“the removal and examination of living tissue”
Modern Usage
English
biopsy
“a diagnostic procedure to investigate disease through tissue analysis.”