mammography

noun

mam·​mog·​ra·​phy ma-ˈmä-grə-fē How to pronounce mammography (audio)
: X-ray examination of the breasts (as for early detection of cancer)
mammographic
ˌma-mə-ˈgra-fik How to pronounce mammography (audio)
adjective

Examples of mammography 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.
Both of their companies aim to better detect breast cancer in women with dense breasts, for whom mammography is often not enough. — Emma Hinchliffe, Fortune, 30 Mar. 2026 The American College of Physicians just released new guidance that advises women to get mammography screenings every two years starting at age 50. — Adam Harrington, CBS News, 28 Apr. 2026 Radiologists initially evaluated each patient using standard imaging methods, such as ultrasound and mammography. — Quing Zhu, The Conversation, 6 Apr. 2026 For women with dense tissue, the ACP says 3D mammography may be considered as a supplement, while advising against routine MRI or ultrasound for average-risk individuals. — Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 28 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for mammography

Word History

Etymology

Latin mamma "breast" + -o- + -graphy — more at mamma entry 1

Note: See note at mammogram.

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of mammography was in 1937

Rhymes for mammography

See All Rhymes for mammography

Browse Nearby Words

mammogram
mammography
mammon
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Cite this Entry

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

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Medical Definition

mammography

noun
mam·​mog·​ra·​phy -fē How to pronounce mammography (audio)
plural mammographies
: X-ray examination of the breasts (as for early detection of cancer)
mammographic
ˌmam-ə-ˈgraf-ik How to pronounce mammography (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on mammography

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about mammography

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