# metastatic

/ˌmɛtəˈstætɪk/ (US) · /mˌɛtəstˈætɪk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/metastatic
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

describing cancer that has spread from its original location to other parts of the body. It is a serious stage of the disease.

For teachers: relating to or caused by the spread of cancer from its primary site to other parts of the body. Often used to describe the stage of the disease rather than the cancer itself.

## Examples

- The doctor explained that the cancer was now metastatic.
- Early detection of metastatic cells in the lymph nodes can significantly improve the patient's long-term survival rates.
- While localized tumors can often be surgically removed, metastatic cancer requires a systemic approach involving chemotherapy and targeted radiation to address the spread throughout the circulatory system.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.