Definition: Neoplasia refers to the process of new, uncontrolled growth of cells in the body, which may be benign or malignant. This term is often used in the context of cancer.
Etymology and Origin: The word ‘neoplasia’ originates from Greek. ‘Neo-‘ means ‘new’, and ‘-plasia’ comes from ‘plassein’, meaning ‘to form’. Thus, the term literally translates to ‘new formation’. It first appeared in medical literature in the late 19th century, reflecting the growing understanding of cellular growth and cancer.
