neoplastic

[ nee-uh-plas-tik ]

adjective

1. Pathology. being or relating to the new, often uncontrolled growth of abnormal tissue:

   The telomerase enzyme is a marker for tumor cells, but the genetic alterations that activate it during neoplastic transformation remain a mystery.

2. Fine Arts. relating to or characteristic of neoplasticism or the de Stijl school, which favors rectangular forms and the use of black, white, and the primary colors:

   Kerdil’s design for this bright, three-compartment vase was inspired by Mondrian's neoplastic paintings.

Word History and Origins

Origin of neoplastic¹

First recorded in 1845–50, for an earlier sense; neo- ( def ) + -plastic ( def )

Example Sentences

There are many neoplastic persuasions and toxic suggestions that must be treated with tact and firmness.

From Project Gutenberg