BRCA

noun

ˌbē-(ˌ)är-(ˌ)sē-ˈā How to pronounce BRCA (audio)
ˈbra-kə
: either of two tumor suppressor genes that in mutated form tend to be associated with an increased risk of certain cancers and especially breast and ovarian cancers
—often used before another noun
BRCA genes
a BRCA mutation

Examples of BRCA in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
About two years ago, I was diagnosed with the BRCA gene. — Terry Terrones, HollywoodReporter, 25 Feb. 2026 The third group had not yet been diagnosed with breast cancer, but carried a genetic predisposition, such as the BRCA gene, that put them at high risk for triple-negative cancer. — Kaitlin Sullivan, NBC news, 11 Dec. 2025 In 2021, Selina underwent a full hysterectomy due to the BRCA gene putting her at risk of ovarian cancer. — Vanessa Etienne, PEOPLE, 30 May 2026 After all, 1 in 400 individuals have a BRCA mutation. — Maggie Wickman, Mercury News, 23 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for BRCA

Word History

First Known Use

1992, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of BRCA was in 1992

Rhymes for BRCA

See All Rhymes for BRCA

Browse Nearby Words

brb
BRCA
brd
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Cite this Entry

“BRCA.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/BRCA. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

BRCA

noun
ˌbē-(ˌ)är-(ˌ)sē-ˈā How to pronounce BRCA (audio)
: either of two tumor suppressor genes that in mutated form tend to be associated with an increased risk of certain cancers and especially breast and ovarian cancers
—often used before another noun
BRCA genes
a BRCA mutation
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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