Metastasis
/mɛˈtæstəˌsɪs/noun
The spread of disease from one organ or part to another non-adjacent organ or part.
Did you know?In ancient Greek medicine, metastasis was thought to be a sign of the body's internal battle against disease, reflecting a deeper philosophical view of change and decay.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
μετάστασις
“a change of position or place, often used in philosophical contexts to describe transformation.”
Late Latin
Latin
metastasis
“the act of changing position, adopted from Greek medical texts.”
16th Century
English
metastasis
“the transfer of disease from one part of the body to another, used in medical contexts.”
Modern English
English
metastasis
“the spread of cancer or disease from one part of the body to another, retaining the sense of change and movement.”