1. a closed sac or pouch in the body containing fluid or other material, often abnormal
Usage: medical
2. a protective capsule formed by certain organisms during dormant stages
Usage: biology

Examples

• The doctor found a small cyst on her ovary during the ultrasound.
• Most cysts are benign and don’t require treatment.
• The sebaceous cyst on his back was removed surgically.
• Bacteria can form cysts to survive harsh environmental conditions.
• The cyst was drained and tested for any signs of infection.
• Some parasites create protective cysts in their host’s tissue.