gangrene
gangrene Lexical Profile
gangrene Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The localized death and decomposition of body tissue resulting from obstructed circulation or bacterial infection.
"Without proper antibiotic treatment and blood flow restoration, severe frostbite can quickly lead to gangrene."
A pervasive, corrupting, or destructive moral or social influence that spreads progressively.
"The historian argued that systemic corruption acted as a slow gangrene within the administration."
• verb
To become affected with gangrene or cause tissue to undergo necrosis and decay.
"The physician closely monitored the patient's foot to ensure the deep wound did not gangrene."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the 16th century via Middle French and Latin 'gangraena', ultimately from Ancient Greek 'gangraina' (an eating sore), related to 'graino' meaning 'to gnaw'.