metastasize
6 synonyms and 2 antonyms for metastasize, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — Of cancer cells, to spread from the original tumour to other parts of the body through the blood or lymphatic system.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. verb
Of cancer cells, to spread from the original tumour to other parts of the body through the blood or lymphatic system.
“The tumour had metastasized to the liver before it was detected.”
How to Use Metastasize
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Medical in the literal sense; the figurative sense is journalistic and carries a strong negative charge, so use it carefully around people affected by illness.
Etymology
From Greek metastasis 'a change of position, removal', from methistanai 'to change, transfer'.
Full origin of metastasize →Frequently Asked Questions
Is it metastasize or metastasise?
Metastasize is the American spelling and metastasise the British one. Both are correct in their own varieties, and medical journals in the UK often use -ize as well.
What is the difference between metastasize and spread?
Spread is general. Metastasize is the specific medical term for cancer cells travelling from the primary tumour and establishing new tumours elsewhere, which changes the stage and the treatment.
What is a metastasis?
A metastasis is a secondary tumour formed by cells that have spread from the original site. The plural is metastases, and doctors often shorten it to "mets".