metaplasia

noun

meta·​pla·​sia ˌme-tə-ˈplā-zh(ē-)ə How to pronounce metaplasia (audio)
1
: transformation of one tissue into another
2
: abnormal replacement of cells of one type by cells of another
metaplastic adjective

Examples of metaplasia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Other theories have included immune dysfunction, chronic inflammation, and metaplasia (an abnormal change in the tissue). Abby Haglage, SELF, 25 Oct. 2017

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'metaplasia.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

New Latin

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of metaplasia was in 1883

Dictionary Entries Near metaplasia

Cite this Entry

“Metaplasia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/metaplasia. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

metaplasia

noun
meta·​pla·​sia ˌmet-ə-ˈplā-zh(ē-)ə How to pronounce metaplasia (audio)
1
: transformation of one tissue into another
metaplasia of cartilage into bone
2
: abnormal replacement of cells of one type by cells of another

More from Merriam-Webster on metaplasia

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