Nevi Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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nevi
[ˈniːvəs ]
Definition
skin mark
A nevus, commonly known as a mole, is a benign skin lesion that is usually brown or black in color. Nevi are formed from melanocytes, which are the cells that produce the pigment melanin. Most nevi are harmless, but some can develop into skin cancer over time.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The dermatologist examined the nevus on my arm.
- It is important to monitor any changes in the size or color of a nevus.
- After the biopsy, the nevus was confirmed to be benign.
- She decided to have the raised nevus removed for cosmetic reasons.
Translations
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Origin of 'nevi'
The word 'nevus' comes from the Latin term 'nāvus', meaning 'mole' or 'birthmark'. This Latin root has been used in medical terminology since the 19th century to describe pigmented lesions on the skin. In modern medicine, the term is commonly used to denote a variety of skin marks, including congenital nevi (present at birth) and acquired or dysplastic nevi (developed later in life). As dermatology evolved, the understanding of nevi expanded to encompass their potential for becoming malignant, leading to increased emphasis on monitoring nevi for changes that may indicate skin cancer. The study of nevi is a significant aspect of dermatological research, particularly concerning melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer.