Meaning of the word canker in English

What does canker mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

canker

US /-kɚ/

UK /-kɚ/

a destructive fungal disease of trees and plants, causing bark to fall off and leading to cankers.

Example:

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The apple tree was severely affected by canker, with large lesions on its branches.

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To prevent canker, it's important to prune trees properly and protect them from injury.

a small, painful ulcer in the mouth or on the lips.

Example:

•

I have a painful canker sore on my tongue that makes it hard to eat.

•

Some people get frequent canker sores when they are stressed.

Synonym:

ulcer sore lesion

to infect with canker; to corrupt or spoil.

Example:

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The disease began to canker the entire orchard, threatening the year's harvest.

•

His bitterness began to canker his relationships with friends and family.

Synonym:

corrupt spoil decay erode blight

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