ENGLISH
REFERENCE

melanoma

n. C / U
C2 Proficiency US //ˌmɛɫəˈnoʊmə// UK //mˌɛlɐnˈəʊmɐ// melanoma

n. a serious type of skin cancer that often starts in a mole. It happens when the cells that give your skin its color grow out of control.

n. a malignant tumour of melanocytes, typically occurring in the skin but also found in the eyes or intestines. It is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of pigment-producing cells and carries a high risk of metastasis.


SIMPLE

Early detection of melanoma is vital for successful treatment.

CONTEXTUAL

The dermatologist performed a biopsy on the irregular mole to check for signs of melanoma.

COMPLEX

While melanoma is less common than other forms of skin cancer, it is significantly more aggressive and accounts for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths globally.

Origin

From melano- + -oma.

Usage

Uncountable when referring to the disease generally; countable when referring to a specific instance or lesion.

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