CultureAugust 23, 2026

metastasizing

muh-TAS-tuh-sy-zing

Definition

Spreading rapidly or growing in an uncontrollable, invasive way.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'metastasis', meaning 'removal' or 'a changing of place', it originally described the spread of disease from one organ to another and later evolved to describe any rapid, unchecked growth.

In the news

The author uses this word to describe the alarming, rapid expansion of the Halloween-themed section within a retail store, suggesting it is taking over space where it does not belong.

Stores are selling Halloween stuff in August. Time has lost all meaning

Read the full article ↗

The Guardian

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