polycystic

adjective

poly·​cys·​tic ˌpä-lē-ˈsi-stik How to pronounce polycystic (audio)
: having or involving more than one cyst
polycystic kidneys
a polycystic disease

Examples of polycystic 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.
Workers who struggle with conditions like endometriosis, adenomyosis, or PMOS (polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, formerly called polycystic ovary disease, or PCOS) can request additional time off as well. Cara Lynn Shultz, PEOPLE, 30 June 2026 The previous name, polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, is imprecise and confusing to patients, families and physicians. Melanie Cree, The Conversation, 29 May 2026 Ultrasound thresholds for identifying polycystic ovaries have moved from 10 follicles, to 12, to 19 or more, depending on the era and the technology used. Adaira Landry, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026 Risk factors include a family history of the disease, being older than 45, carrying excess weight, exercising fewer than three times a week, a history of gestational diabetes, high blood pressure or cholesterol, prediabetes and polycystic ovarian syndrome. Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 1 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for polycystic

Word History

Etymology

poly- + cystic

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of polycystic was in 1861

Cite this Entry

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

Medical Definition

polycystic

adjective
poly·​cys·​tic -ˈsis-tik How to pronounce polycystic (audio)
: having or involving more than one cyst
polycystic kidneys
polycystic disease

More from Merriam-Webster on polycystic

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster