1
: a closed sac having a distinct membrane and developing abnormally in a cavity or structure of the body
2
: a body resembling a cyst: such as
a
: a resting spore of many algae
b
: the air bladder of certain algae or aquatic plants (such as rockweed)
c
: a capsule formed about a minute organism going into a resting or spore stage
also
: this capsule with its contents
d
: a resistant cover about a parasite produced by the parasite or the host
: bladder : sac
blastocyst
Examples of cyst in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Cristina Mutchler, Health, 10 Aug. 2024
When this happens, corticosteroids are used to try to keep the inflammation in check while the cyst is dying.
—Avery Hurt, Discover Magazine, 6 Aug. 2024
These cysts can feel hard or soft and can be easily moved around inside the breast.
—Donna Murray, Rn, Parents, 29 July 2024
The tennis player has particularly struggled for fitness in recent weeks in the wake of surgery to remove a spinal cyst.
—NBC News, 25 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for cyst 
Noun
Ganglion cysts grow on tendons or ligaments as a result of constant stress or pressure, causing finger pain, tingling, and swelling.15
In rare cases, a tumor known as an enchondroma may develop inside the finger bone cartilage and prompt visible swelling.
—Cristina Mutchler, Health, 10 Aug. 2024
When this happens, corticosteroids are used to try to keep the inflammation in check while the cyst is dying.
—Avery Hurt, Discover Magazine, 6 Aug. 2024
These cysts can feel hard or soft and can be easily moved around inside the breast.
—Donna Murray, Rn, Parents, 29 July 2024
The tennis player has particularly struggled for fitness in recent weeks in the wake of surgery to remove a spinal cyst.
—NBC News, 25 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for cyst
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'cyst.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near cyst
Cite this Entry
“Cyst.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cyst. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
cyst
noun1
: a closed pouch or sac of fluid or solid material that develops in the body in some diseased conditions
2
: a covering resembling a cyst or a body (as a spore) with such a covering
cystic
adjective
ˈsis-tik
Medical Definition
cyst
noun1
: a closed sac having a distinct membrane and developing abnormally in a body cavity or structure
2
: a body resembling a cyst: as
a
: a capsule formed about a minute organism going into a resting or spore stage
also
: this capsule with its contents
b
: a resistant cover about a parasite produced by the parasite or the host compare hydatid sense 2a
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