nodule

noun

nod·​ule ˈnä-(ˌ)jül 

: a small mass of rounded or irregular shape: such 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 (such as a tumorous growth or a calcification near an arthritic joint)

Synonyms of nodule

• swelling
• lump
• node
• bump
• bruise
• tumor

Examples of nodule in a Sentence

The examination revealed a nodule on his lung.

a nodule on the leaf indicated that a worm had laid eggs there

Recent Examples on the Web

In onchocerciasis, adult worms live in small nodules under the skin. —Philip Budge, The Conversation, 5 Mar. 2026

The main specific risk is the potential for nodules or granulomas (small bumps) forming under the skin, especially if improperly placed or massaged. —Cindy Krischer Goodman, Sun Sentinel, 5 Mar. 2026

The scan turned up no blood clots, but there was a small nodule in the patient’s lung. —Emily Brindley, Chicago Tribune, 5 Mar. 2026

Instead of clustering near the fractures where groundwater once flowed, the nodules turned up along ridge walls and inside the hollows between ridges. —Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 4 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin nodulus, diminutive of nodus

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for nodule

• module

Kids Definition

nodule

noun

nod·​ule ˈnäj-(ˌ)ü(ə)l 

1

: a small rounded mass

manganese nodules on the ocean floor

2

: a swelling on the root of a plant of the legume family that contains nitrogen-fixing bacteria

nodular

ˈnäj-ə-lər

adjective

Medical Definition

nodule

noun

nod·​ule ˈnäj-(ˌ)ü(ə)l 

: a small mass of rounded or irregular shape: as

a

: a small abnormal knobby bodily protuberance (as a tumorous growth or a calcification near an arthritic joint)

b

: the nodulus of the cerebellum