adj
cystic
SIHS-tihk
Cystic (adj) means relating to a cyst — an abnormal fluid-filled sac in the body. Example: “The scan revealed a small cystic mass on her ovary.”
adj
1
Relating to a cyst — an abnormal fluid-filled sac in the body.
"The scan revealed a small cystic mass on her ovary."
"Cystic acne is a severe form that causes deep, painful lumps."
2
Relating to the gall bladder or the urinary bladder.
"The cystic duct connects the gall bladder to the bile duct."
How to use cystic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA medical adjective describing anything related to a cyst or to the bladder.
Common mistake
Most people meet this word through "cystic fibrosis," a genetic disease — that's a fixed medical name, not a general description of the illness.
Common pairings
cystic acne
cystic fibrosis
cystic duct
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The scan revealed a small _____ mass on her ovary.
Etymology
From Middle French cystique, ultimately from Ancient Greek kystis, "bladder" or "pouch."
Rhymes for cystic
See all rhymes for cystic →Frequently asked questions
What does “cystic” mean?
The word “cystic” means relating to a cyst — an abnormal fluid-filled sac in the body. In plain terms, a medical adjective describing anything related to a cyst or to the bladder.
How do you pronounce “cystic”?
“Cystic” is pronounced SIHS-tihk (/ˈsɪstɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “cystic” in a sentence?
Here is “cystic” used in a sentence: “The scan revealed a small cystic mass on her ovary.”
What part of speech is “cystic”?
“Cystic” is an adjective.
Where does the word “cystic” come from?
The word “cystic” comes from Ancient Greek. From Middle French cystique, ultimately from Ancient Greek kystis, "bladder" or "pouch.".
How many meanings does “cystic” have?
“Cystic” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to a cyst — an abnormal fluid-filled sac in the body.
