English Reference

Word

cystic

Phoneticscys·tic

US/ˈsɪstɪk/

UK/sˈɪstɪk/

Definition

adj. relating to or having cysts, which are small sacs filled with fluid or other material in the body.

adj. pertaining to, containing, or of the nature of a cyst; specifically relating to the urinary bladder or the gallbladder.

Examples

“The doctor examined a cystic growth on the patient's arm.”

“Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition that affects the lungs and digestive system by creating thick mucus.”

“The surgeon carefully isolated the cystic duct to ensure the gallbladder could be removed without damaging the common bile duct.”

Examples

simple

“The doctor examined a cystic growth on the patient's arm.”

contextual

“Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition that affects the lungs and digestive system by creating thick mucus.”

complex

“The surgeon carefully isolated the cystic duct to ensure the gallbladder could be removed without damaging the common bile duct.”

Usage

Often used in medical contexts to describe anatomical structures or pathological conditions involving sacs.

Real-World Examples

“See a GP or dermatologist If you have persistent painful cystic or scarring acne, seek medical advice, as often prescription-grade treatment is needed.”
BBC News · 21 Sept 2026

Etymology

From Middle French cystique, from Ancient Greek κύστις (kústis).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

Domain

Anatomy

This entry

Level
C2 · Proficiency
Frequency
Occasional
Updated

Scan code

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English Reference