canker
noun
can·ker
| \ ˈkaŋ-kər
\
\
Definition of canker
(Entry 1 of 2)
1a(1)
: an erosive or spreading sore
(2)
: an area of necrosis in a plant
also
: a plant disease characterized by cankers
Citrus canker is caused by bacteria.
b
: any of various disorders of animals marked by chronic inflammatory changes
2
archaic
: a caterpillar destructive to plants
4
: a source of corruption or debasement
suspicion is a canker that … will consume and waste all love— R. Sibbes