caries

[ kair-eez, -ee-eez ]
/ ˈkɛər iz, -iˌiz /

noun, plural car·ies.

decay, as of bone or of plant tissue.

Origin of caries

First recorded in 1625–35, caries is from the Latin word cariēs decay

WORDS THAT MAY BE CONFUSED WITH caries

caries carries

Definition for caries (2 of 2)

Carie
[ kar-ee ]
/ ˈkær i /

noun

a female given name, form of Caroline.

Example sentences from the Web for caries

British Dictionary definitions for caries

caries
/ (ˈkɛəriːz) /

noun plural -ies

progressive decay of a bone or a tooth

Word Origin for caries

C17: from Latin: decay; related to Greek kēr death

Medical definitions for caries

caries
[ kârēz ]

n. pl. caries

Decay of a bone or tooth, especially dental caries.

Scientific definitions for caries

caries
[ kârēz ]

Plural caries

Decay of a bone or tooth. Dental plaque formed by bacteria initiates a progressive process of decay that, if left unchecked, leads to tooth loss.