Definition of canker
(Entry 1 of 2)
1a(1)
: an erosive or spreading sore
(2)
: an area of necrosis in a plant
also
: a plant disease characterized by cankers
Citrus canker is caused by bacteria.
b
: any of various disorders of animals marked by chronic inflammatory changes
2
archaic
: a caterpillar destructive to plants
4
: a source of corruption or debasement
suspicion is a canker that … will consume and waste all love— R. Sibbes
canker
verbDefinition of canker (Entry 2 of 2)
1
obsolete
: to infect with a spreading sore
2
: to corrupt the spirit of
a relationship cankered by jealousy
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for canker
The first known use of canker was before the 12th century
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