cáncer
“cáncer” means “cancer” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
cancer
📝 In Action
Su tío está recibiendo tratamiento para el cáncer.
B1His uncle is receiving treatment for cancer.
La prevención del cáncer es muy importante para la salud pública.
B2Cancer prevention is very important for public health.
Cancer
Also: Cancerian
📝 In Action
Mi mejor amigo es Cáncer; es muy emocional y protector.
B1My best friend is a Cancer; he is very emotional and protective.
La temporada de Cáncer comienza en verano.
B2Cancer season begins in summer.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: cáncer
Question 1 of 1
Si alguien dice 'Mi prima es Cáncer,' ¿a qué se refiere?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
This word comes directly from the Latin word *cancer*, which meant 'crab.' Ancient Greek and Roman physicians used this term because they thought the tumor's swollen veins looked like the legs of a crab spreading out. The astrological sign is also named after the crab.
First recorded: Ancient times (via Latin)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
¿Es 'cáncer' masculino o femenino?
It is always masculine. You must use 'el' (the) or 'un' (a) before it. Even though it ends in a vowel followed by 'r,' this noun is masculine: 'El cáncer'.