: inhibiting or preventing the growth and spread of tumors or malignant cells

Word History

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of antineoplastic was in 1898

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Cite this Entry

“Antineoplastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antineoplastic. Accessed 13 Apr. 2025.

Medical Definition

antineoplastic

1 of 2 adjective
: inhibiting or preventing the growth and spread of neoplasms or malignant cells
treated with a regimen of antineoplastic drugs

antineoplastic

2 of 2 noun
: an antineoplastic agent
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