Definition of "nodule" []

• A small knotlike protuberance. (noun)
• Anatomy A small mass of tissue or aggregation of cells. (noun)
• Botany A small knoblike outgrowth, as those found on the roots of many leguminous plants. (noun)
• Mineralogy A small rounded lump of a mineral or mixture of minerals, usually harder than the surrounding rock or sediment. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "A thyroid nodule is a firm lump in the thyroid gland; it may be cancerous or benign (not cancerous)."
• "A vocal cord nodule is a small, inflammatory or fibrous growth that develops on the vocal cords of people who constantly strain their voices."
• ""I'd rather use the word nodule," Tom replied with his signature sense of humor."