Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

anaplastic

adjective

/ˌænəˈplæstɪk/

Definition

Anaplastic refers to a type of cell that has lost its differentiation and specialization and is typically associated with cancerous growths.

Examples

Anaplastic thyroid cancer is a rare and aggressive form of thyroid cancer.
The anaplastic nature of the cells made it difficult to treat the tumor effectively.

Meaning

The term is commonly used in the context of tumors, particularly those that are aggressive and poorly differentiated, meaning they do not resemble the normal cells from which they originated.