caries

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun soft decayed area in a tooth; progressive decay can lead to the death of a tooth

Borrowed from Latin cariēs.

Scepticism, that caries of the intelligence, had not left him a single whole idea. — Les Misérables, Victor Hugo
This disease, like caries and many other ailments, is prevalent only among civilized races living under artificial conditions; barbarous nations breathing pure air and eating simple food enjoy immunity from its ravages. — The Devil's Dictionary, Ambrose Bierce

cavity, dental caries, tooth decay

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