nodule

nod·ule

noun \ˈnä-(ˌ)jül\

Definition of NODULE

: a small mass of rounded or irregular shape: as a : a small rounded lump of a mineral or mineral aggregate b : a swelling on a leguminous root that contains symbiotic bacteria c : a small abnormal knobby bodily protuberance (as a tumorous growth or a calcification near an arthritic joint)

Examples of NODULE

1. The examination revealed a nodule on his lung.
2. <a nodule on the leaf indicated that a worm had laid eggs there>

Origin of NODULE

Middle English, from Latin nodulus, diminutive of nodus

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to NODULE

Synonyms: knot, lump, node, bump, swelling

Related Words: growth, tumor, wart; hump, hunch; bruise, contusion, welt; blister, boil; blob, chunk, clod, clump, gob, gobbet, hunk, knob, nub, nubble, nugget, wad

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