n. (pl. metastases) Physiol.
1. the transference of a bodily function, disease, etc., from one part or organ to another.
2 the transformation of chemical compounds into others in the process of assimilation by an organism.
Derivatives:
metastasize v.intr. (also -ise). metastatic adj.
Etymology: LL f. Gk f. methistemi change