How Do You Spell CANKER?

1. Canker is a noun with multiple definitions, often referring to different types of afflictions or deteriorating conditions. However, the most common definition of canker refers to a painful and often contagious ulcerous sore that develops on the mucous membranes inside the mouth, particularly on the lip or tongue. These sores typically manifest as small, white or yellowish spots surrounded by a red border and can be caused by a variety of factors, including emotional stress, a weakened immune system, or a viral or bacterial infection.

   Beyond its medical meaning, canker can also be used to describe various damaging or corrupting influences that infect or degrade something. This broader meaning implies an inner decay or rot, often affecting moral, social, or political matters. In this sense, canker refers to a spreading corruption or evil that gradually erodes or destroys a system, organization, or community from within. It can be metaphorically associated with a persistent and destructive force that damages foundations and weakens structures.

   Additionally, the term canker can be used to describe certain types of plant diseases characterized by the development of decayed or necrotic tissues. These diseases are caused by pathogens, such as fungi or bacteria, that infect plants, particularly trees and shrubs. Canker diseases often result in the formation of sunken or swollen lesions on the plant's bark or branches, leading to reduced growth, wilted leaves, and potentially even death if left untreated.

   In summary, canker typically refers to a painful ulcerous sore in the mouth, a corrupting or deteriorating influence, or a plant disease characterized by necrotic lesions.

2. 1. Aphthous stomatitis. 2. Noma. 3. A morbid secretion of the sensitive frog and sole of the horse, involving also the corresponding insensitive parts.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. • A disease in trees which causes the bark to rot and fall off; a corroding ulcer.

   • To eat; to corrode; to consume, as a cancer does the body; to grow corrupt; to waste away by degrees.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for CANKER

The word "canker" has a complex etymology, derived from various roots and historical influences.

1. Old English: The earliest source is the Old English word "cancor", which originally referred to a malignant, spreading sore or ulcer. This Old English term may have originated from the Proto-Germanic word "*kankron", meaning "gangrene" or "ulcer".

2. Latin and Greek: Another possible influence is the Latin word "cancer", which means "crab". This Latin word was used to describe ulcers because their appearance was often compared to a crab spreading its claws. The Greek word "karkinos" also means "crab" and may have contributed to the Latin term.

3. Medieval Latin: During the Middle Ages, the Latin word "cancer" referred not only to a crab but also to a malignant tumor or sore. This meaning was inherited from ancient Greek medicine.

Similar spelling words for CANKER

Plural form of CANKER is CANKERS

Conjugate verb Canker

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