Main Entry: cyst

Pronunciation: \ˈsist\

Function: noun

1 : 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 2a