oncology

UK: ɒŋˈkɒlədʒi | US: ɑːnˈkɑːlədʒi

Definition
  1. n. The branch of medicine that deals with the study and treatment of tumors and cancer.

Structure

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Etymology

The word oncology originates from Greek, combining onkos (meaning "mass" or "tumor") and -logia (meaning "study of"). The term reflects the medical focus on diagnosing and treating cancerous growths. Over time, onkos evolved into the modern prefix onco-, used in medical terminology (e.g., oncogene, oncology), while -logy became a standard suffix for fields of study. The word’s structure clearly mirrors its purpose: the systematic study (-logy) of tumors (onco-).

Examples
  1. She specialized in oncology after her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer.

  2. Advances in oncology have significantly improved survival rates for many cancers.

  3. The hospital’s oncology department is equipped with cutting-edge technology.

  4. His research in molecular oncology earned him international recognition.

  5. Oncology nurses play a critical role in supporting patients during chemotherapy.