The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

4.8

✔ Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.
✔ All-in-one: dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.

✔ 632 pages, 147 lessons, 428 practical activities.

✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.

Buy on Amazon

Amazon Best Seller:

#1 Spelling & Vocabulary.

#1 Education TOEFL & TOEIC.

#1 Slang & Idiom Reference Books.

Upgrade Your Vocabulary With Our Best-Selling Book:

carcinogenic

adjective

/ˌkɑːsənəˈdʒɛnɪk/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of carcinogenic

Having the potential to cause or promote the development of cancer in living organisms, including humans.
"The carcinogenic chemicals in cigarettes increase the risk of lung cancer."

Detailed meaning of carcinogenic

Carcinogenic substances are known to have harmful effects on DNA, cellular processes, or other biological mechanisms that can lead to the uncontrolled growth and division of cells, resulting in the formation of cancerous tumors. These substances can be found in various environmental pollutants, chemicals, and even some naturally occurring compounds. Identifying and regulating carcinogenic substances is essential in public health and safety efforts to minimize cancer risk, as exposure to them can significantly increase the likelihood of developing cancer. The term "carcinogenic" underscores the grave concern associated with substances that have the potential to trigger one of the most life-threatening diseases known to medicine.

Example sentences containing carcinogenic

1. Smoking is a known source of carcinogenic substances.
2. Prolonged exposure to asbestos can be carcinogenic.
3. Avoiding processed meats can reduce carcinogenic risks.
4. The sun's UV rays are potentially carcinogenic.
5. Some pesticides contain carcinogenic chemicals.
6. Radon gas is a naturally occurring carcinogenic agent.

History and etymology of carcinogenic

The adjective 'carcinogenic' is derived from the noun 'carcinogen,' which is composed of two Greek roots: 'karkinos' (meaning 'crab') and 'genes' (meaning 'born of' or 'producing'). The term 'carcinogen' was first coined in the mid-20th century to describe substances or agents that have the potential to cause or promote the development of cancer, particularly in living organisms, including humans. The association with the word 'crab' in its etymology is intriguing, as it stems from the ancient belief that some tumors resembled the shape of a crab. Over time, as scientific knowledge advanced, the term 'carcinogenic' became a crucial concept in the field of oncology to describe substances with cancer-causing properties, emphasizing their potential to give rise to malignancies.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the adjective carcinogenic:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of carcinogenic

1. Identifying carcinogenic substances in food is crucial.
2. Air pollution can contain carcinogenic particles.
3. Reducing exposure to carcinogenic chemicals is essential.
4. Lung cancer is often linked to carcinogenic agents.
5. Tobacco products are a source of carcinogenic compounds.
6. Carcinogenic effects of radiation exposure are well-documented.
7. Chemicals in plastic may have carcinogenic properties.
8. Detecting carcinogenic pollutants in water is vital.
9. Carcinogenic substances in cosmetics require regulation.
10. Occupational exposure to asbestos can be highly carcinogenic.
11. Carcinogenic risks of processed foods are a concern.
12. Benzene is a known carcinogenic chemical.
13. Identifying carcinogenic pollutants in soil is important.
14. Carcinogenic ingredients in skincare products should be avoided.
15. Prolonged exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays can lead to skin cancer due to carcinogenic properties.
16. The industrial waste dumped into the river contains carcinogenic toxins that are hazardous to aquatic life.
17. Certain pesticides used in agriculture have been found to have carcinogenic effects on humans.
18. The use of asbestos in building materials has been banned due to its carcinogenic nature.
19. Cooking meats at high temperatures can produce carcinogenic compounds that can lead to cancer.
20. The consumption of processed foods with artificial preservatives may increase the risk of developing carcinogenic tumors.
21. The presence of carcinogenic substances in the air we breathe can lead to respiratory illnesses and cancers.
22. Long-term exposure to diesel exhaust fumes is known to have carcinogenic effects on the human body.
23. Studies have shown that some hair dyes contain carcinogenic chemicals that can cause cancer.
24. Inhaling secondhand smoke can expose non-smokers to carcinogenic toxins that can damage their health.
25. The use of certain plastics in food packaging has been linked to the release of carcinogenic substances.