cystic

adjective

cys·​tic ˈsi-stik 

1

: of or relating to the urinary bladder or the gallbladder

2

: relating to, composed of, or containing cysts

3

: enclosed in a cyst

Examples of cystic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Renée Rouleau Anti Bump Solution, $49.50, is one of the most-beloved topical treatments for cystic acne, while a hydrogel patch with micro darts, like ZitSticka Killa Kit, $14, can help to expedite their healing. —Jessica Ourisman, Forbes.com, 6 May 2025

Isotretinoin is a powerful oral retinoid that can be prescribed to treat resistant cystic acne. —Caroline C. Boyle, USA Today, 11 Apr. 2025

Antioxidant-rich wild yam root extract also makes an appearance to provide anti-inflammatory benefits—exactly what sensitive and acne-prone skin types need to soothe redness, swollen cystic acne, and everything in between. —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 4 Apr. 2025

The resulting symptoms include things like cystic acne, unusual hair growth, and, yes, sporadic or missing periods. —Korin Miller, SELF, 31 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1713, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing cystic

• cystic fibrosis

Rhymes for cystic

• agonistic
• altruistic
• animistic
• aphoristic
• atheistic
• cabalistic
• calvinistic
• chauvinistic
• dualistic
• egoistic
• egotistic
• eucharistic

Medical Definition

cystic

adjective

cys·​tic ˈsis-tik 

1

: relating to, composed of, or containing cysts

cystic tissue

a cystic tumor

2

: of or relating to the urinary bladder or the gallbladder

3

: enclosed in a cyst

a cystic worm larva