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Human Anatomy & Physiology I, 2nd edition: Appendix II: Anatomical Prefixes and Suffixes

Human Anatomy & Physiology I, 2nd edition
Appendix II: Anatomical Prefixes and Suffixes
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table of contents
  1. Cover
  2. Title Page
  3. Copyright
  4. Table Of Contents
  5. Preface
  6. Levels of Organization
    1. Unit 1: Atoms and Molecules
    2. Unit 2: The Chemistry of Water
    3. Unit 3: Biochemistry
    4. Unit 4: Cell Structure and Function
    5. Unit 5: Membrane Structure and Function
    6. Unit 6: Tissue Structure and Functions
    7. Unit 7: Body Structure
    8. Unit 8: Homeostasis
  7. Support and Movement
    1. Unit 11: The Integumentary System
    2. Unit 12: The Skeletal System
    3. Unit 13: Joints
    4. Unit 14: Biomechanics
    5. Unit 15: Muscle Anatomy and Movement
    6. Unit 16: Muscle Physiology
  8. Glossary
  9. Appendix I: Periodic Table of the Elements
  10. Appendix II: Anatomical Prefixes and Suffixes

3

Appendix II: Anatomical Prefixes and Suffixes

Source: Wikipedia. 2021. List of Medical Roots, Suffixes, and Prefixes. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_medical_roots,_suffixes_and_prefixes.

Alphabetical Index:

A  B  C  D   E  G  H  I  J-K  L  M  N  O  P  Q-R  S  T  U  V  X-Z

Index by Topic:

Bodily Concepts   Body Parts and Substances  Colour  Description  Position  Quantity or Amount

A

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
a-, an-not, without (alpha privative)Greek ἀ-/ἀν- (a-/an-), not, withoutanalgesic, apathy
ab-from; away fromLatinabduction
abdomin-of or relating to the abdomenLatin abdōmen, abdomen, fat around the bellyabdomen, abdominal
-acpertaining to; one afflicted withGreek -ακός (-akós)cardiac, hydrophobiac
acanth-thorn or spineGreek ἄκανθα (ákantha), thornacanthion, acanthocyte, acanthoma, acanthulus
acou-[1]of or relating to hearingGreek ἀκούειν (akoúein), ἀκουστικός (akoustikós), of or for hearingacoumeter, acoustician, hyperacusis
acr-extremity, topmostGreek ἄκρον (ákron), highest or farthest pointacrocrany, acromegaly, acroosteolysis, acroposthia
-acusishearingGreek ἀκουστικός (akoustikós), of or for hearingparacusis
-adtoward, in the direction ofLatin ad, toward, todorsad, ventrad
ad-at, increase, on, towardLatin ad-, toadduction, addition
aden-of or relating to a glandGreek ἀδήν, ἀδέν-, (adḗn, adén-), an acorn; a glandadenocarcinoma, adenology, adenotome, adenotyphus
adip-of or relating to fat or fatty tissueLatin (adeps, adip-), fatadipocyte
adren-of or relating to the adrenal glandsLatin ad + rēnēs, kidneysadrenal artery
-aemia, ema, hemat (BrE)blood conditionGreek ἀναιμία (anaimía), without bloodanaemia
aer(o)-air, gasGreek ἀήρ, ἀέρος (aḗr, aéros)aerosinusitis, aerodynamics
aesthesi- (BrE)sensationGreek αἴσθησις (aísthēsis)anaesthesia
-alpertaining toLatin -alisabdominal, femoral
alb-denoting a white or pale colorLatin albus, whitealbino, tunica albica
alge(si)-painGreek ἄλγος (álgos)analgesic
-algia, alg(i)o-painGreekmyalgia
all-denoting something as different, or as an additionGreek ἄλλος (állos), another, otheralloantigen, allopathy
ambi-denoting something as positioned on both sides; describing both of twoLatin (ambi-, ambo), both, on both sidesambidextrous
amnio-Pertaining to the membranous fetal sac (amnion)Greek ἄμνιον (ámnion)amniocentesis
amph(i)-on both sidesGreek ἀμφί (amphí)amphicrania, amphismela, amphomycin
amylo-starchy, carbohydrate-relatedLatin amylum (starch)amylase, amylophagia
an-not, without (alpha privative)Greekanalgesia
ana-back, again, upGreek ἀνα- (ana-)anaplasia
an-anusLatinanal
andr-pertaining to a manGreek ἀνήρ, ἀνδρ- (anḗr, andr-), maleandroid, andrology, androgen
angi-blood vesselGreek ἀγγεῖον (angeîon)angiogram, angioplasty
aniso-describing something as unequalGreek ἄνῑσος (ánīsos), unequalanisocytosis, anisotropic
ankyl-, ancyl-denoting something as crooked or bentGreek ἀγκύλος (ankúlos), crooked, curvedankylosis
ante-describing something as positioned in front of another thingLatin (āntē), before, in front ofantepartum
anthropo-humanGreek άνθρωπος (ánthrōpos), humananthropology
anti-describing something as ‘against’ or ‘opposed to’ anotherGreek αντι (anti), againstantibody, antipsychotic
apo-away, separated from, derived fromGreek ἀπό (apó)apoptosis
archi-first, primitiveGreek ἀρχι- (arkhi-)archinephron
arsen(o)-of or pertaining to a male; masculineGreek αρσενικός (arsenikós)arsenoblast
arteri(o)-of or pertaining to an arteryGreek ἀρτηρία (artēría), a wind-pipe, artery (used distinctly versus a vein)arteriole, artery
arthr-of or pertaining to the joints, limbsGreek ἄρθρον (árthron), a joint, limbarthritis
articul-jointLatin articulusarticulation
-arypertaining toLatin -ariusbiliary tract, coronary
-aseenzymefrom Greek διάστασις (δια- (dia-, part, apart) + στάσις (stásis, stand)), divisionlactase
-astheniaweaknessGreek ἀσθένεια (asthéneia)myasthenia gravis
atel(o)-imperfect or incomplete developmentGreek ἀτελής (atelḗs), without end, incompleteatelocardia
ather-fatty deposit, soft gruel-like depositἀθάρη (athárē)atherosclerosis
-ationprocessLatinmedication, civilization
atri-an atrium (esp. heart atrium)Latinatrioventricular
aur-of or pertaining to the earLatin (auris), the earaural
aut-selfGreek αὐτός, αὐτο- (autós, auto-)autoimmune, autograph, autobiography, automobile, automatic
aux(o)-increase; growthGreek αὐξάνω, αὔξω (auxánō, aúxō)auxocardia: enlargement of the heart, auxology
axill-of or pertaining to the armpit (uncommon as a prefix)Latin (axilla), armpitaxilla
azo(to)-nitrogenous compoundFrench azote, nitrogen; from Greek άζωτικός (ázōtikós) ἀ- (a-, no, without) + ζωή (zōḗ, life)), mephitic airazothermia: raised temperature due to nitrogenous substances in blood

B

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
bacillusrod-shapedLatin baculus, stickBacillus anthracis
bacteri-Pertaining to bacteriaLatin (bacterium; Greek βακτήριον (baktḗrion), small staffbacteriophage, bactericide
balan-of the glans penis or glans clitoridisGreek βάλανος (bálanos), acorn, glansbalanitis
bas-of or pertaining to baseGreek βάσις (básis), foundation, basebasolateral
bi-twice, doubleLatin bi-binary vision, bicycle, bisexual
bio-lifeGreek βίος (bíos)biology, biological
blast-germinate or budGreek βλαστός (blastós)blastomere
blephar(o)-of or pertaining to the eyelidGreek βλέφαρον (blépharon), eyelidblepharoplasty
brachi(o)-of or relating to the armLatin (bracchium), from Greek βραχίων (brakhíōn), armbrachium of inferior colliculus
brachy-indicating ‘short’ or less commonly ‘little’Greek βραχύς (brakhús), short, little, shallowbrachycephalic
brady-slowGreek βραδύς (bradús), slowbradycardia
bronch(i)-of or relating to the bronchusLatin (bronchus); Greek βρόγχος (brónkhos), windpipebronchitis, bronchiolitis obliterans
bucc(o)-of or pertaining to the cheekLatin bucca, cheekbuccolabial
burs(o)-bursa (fluid sac between the bones)Latin (bursa), purse; Greek βύρσα (búrsa), hide, wine-skinbursa, bursitis

C

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
capill-of or pertaining to hairLatin capillus, haircapillus
capit-pertaining to the head as a wholeLatin caput, capit-, the headcapitation, decapitation
carcin-cancerGreek καρκίνος (karkínos), crabcarcinoma
cardi-of or pertaining to the heartGreek καρδία (kardía), heartcardiology
carp-of or pertaining to the wristLatin (carpus) < Greek καρπός (karpós), wrist; NOTE: This root should not be confused with the mirror root carp(o)- meaning fruit.carpal, carpopedal spasm, metacarpal
cata-down, underGreek κατά (katá)catabolism, catacombs, cataract
-celepouching, herniaGreek κήλη (kḗlē)hydrocele, varicocele
-centesissurgical puncture for aspirationGreek κέντησις (kéntēsis)amniocentesis
cephal(o)-of or pertaining to the head (as a whole)Greek κεφαλή (kephalḗ), the headcephalalgy, hydrocephalus
cerat(o)-of or pertaining to the cornu; a hornGreek κέρας, κερατ- (kéras, kerat-), a hornceratoid
cerebell(o)-of or pertaining to the cerebellumLatin cerebellum, little braincerebellum
cerebr(o)-of or pertaining to the brainLatin cerebrum, braincerebrology
cervic-of or pertaining to the neck or the cervixLatin cervix, cervīc-), neck, cervixcervical vertebrae, cervicodorsal
cheil-of or pertaining to the lipsGreek χεῖλος (kheîlos), lip, mouth, beakangular cheilitis
chem(o)-chemistry, drugGreek χημεία (khēmeía)chemical, chemistry, chemotherapy
chir-, cheir-of or pertaining to the handGreek χείρ, χειρο- (kheír, kheiro-), handchiropractor
chlor-denoting a green colorGreek χλωρός (khlōrós), green, yellow-greenchlorophyll
chol(e)-of or pertaining to bileGreek χολή (kholḗ), bilecholaemia (UK) / cholemia (US), cholecystitis
cholecyst(o)-of or pertaining to the gallbladderGreek χοληκύστις (kholēkústis), gallbladder < χολή (kholḗ), bile, gall + κύστις (kústis), bladdercholecystectomy
chondr(i)o-cartilage, gristle, granule, granularGreek χονδρός (grc)chondrocalcinosis
chrom(ato)-colorGreek χρῶμα (khrôma)hemochromatosis
-cidal, -cidekilling, destroyingLatin -cīda, cutter, killerbacteriocidal, suicide, suicidal
cili-of or pertaining to the cilia, the eyelashes; eyelidsLatin cilium, eyelash; eyelidciliary
circum-denoting something as ‘around’ anotherLatin circum, aroundcircumcision
cis-on this sideLatin ciscisgender
-clastbreakGreek κλαστός (klastós), brokenosteoclast
clostr-spindleGreek κλωστήρ (klōstḗr), spindle, threadClostridium
co-with, together, in associationLatin co-coenzymes, co-organization
-coccus, ‑coccalround, sphericalGreek κόκκος (kókkos), berry, seedStreptococcus
col-, colo-, colono-colonGreek κόλον (kólon)colonoscopy
colp-of or pertaining to the vaginaGreek κόλπος (kólpos), bosom, womb; hollow, depthcolposcopy
com-with, togetherLatin cumcommunicate
contra-againstLatin contrācontraindication
cor-with, togetherLatin cor-corrective
cor-of or pertaining to the eye’s pupilGreek κόρη (kórē), girl, doll; pupil of the eyecorectomy
cord(i)-of or pertaining to the heart (uncommon as a prefix)Latin cor, heartcommotio cordis,
cornu-applied to describing processes and parts of the body as likened or similar to hornsLatin cornū, horngreater cornu
coron-pertaining to the heartLatin corōnacoronary heart disease
cortic-cortex, outer regionLatin cortex, bark of a treecorticosteroid
cost-of or pertaining to the ribsLatin costa, ribcostochondral
cox-of or relating to the hip, haunch, or hip-jointLatin coxa, hipcoxopodite
crani(o)-belonging or relating to the craniumLatin cranium, from Greek κρᾱνίον (krāníon), cranium, skull, bones enclosing the braincraniology
-crine, crin(o)-to secreteGreek κρίνω (krínō), separate, divide, discernendocrine
cry(o)-coldGreek κρύος (krúos), cold, frostcryoablation, cryogenic
cutane-skinLatin cutissubcutaneous
cyan(o)-having a blue colorGreek κύανος, κυάνεος (kúanos, kuáneos, blue, of the color blue)cyanopsia
cycl-circle, cycleGreek κύκλος (kúklos)cyclosis, cyclops, tricycle
cyph(o)-denotes something as bent (uncommon as a prefix)Greek κυφός (kuphós), bent, hunchbackcyphosis
cyst(o)-, cyst(i)-of or pertaining to the urinary bladderGreek κύστις (kústis), bladder, cystcystotomy
cyt(o)-, -cytecellGreek κύτος (kútos), a hollow, vesselcytokine, leukocyte, cytoplasm

D

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
dacry(o)-of or pertaining to tearsGreek δάκρυ, teardacryoadenitis, dacryocystitis
-dactyl(o)-of or pertaining to a finger, toeGreek δάκτυλος (dáktulos), finger, toedactylology, polydactyly
de-from, down, or away fromLatin de-dehydrate, demonetize, demotion
dent-of or pertaining to teethLatin dens, dentis, toothdentist, dental
dermat(o)-, derm(o)-of or pertaining to the skinGreek δέρμα, δέρματος (dérma, dérmatos), skin, human skindermatology, epidermis, hypodermic, xeroderma
-desisbindingGreek δέσις (désis)arthrodesis
dextr(o)-right, on the right sideLatin dexterdextrocardia
di-twoGreek δι-diplopia,
di-apart, separationLatin dis-dilation, distal, dilute
dia-through, during, acrossGreek διά (diá), through, during, acrossdialysis
dif-apart, separationLatin dif-different
digit-of or pertaining to the finger [rare as a root]Latin digitus, finger, toedigit
diplo-twofoldGreek διπλόος (diplóos)diploid, diplosis
-dipsia(condition of) thirstGreek δίψα (dípsa)dipsomania, hydroadipsia, oligodipsia, polydipsia
dis-separation, taking apartLatin dis-dissection
dors(o)-, dors(i)-of or pertaining to the backLatin dorsum, backdorsal, dorsocephalad
dromo-running, conduction, courseGreek δρόμος (drómos)dromotropic, syndrome
duodeno-twelveLatin duodeniduodenal atresia, duodenum
dura-hardLatin durusdura mater
dynam(o)-force, energy, powerGreek δύναμις (dúnamis)hand strength dynamometer, dynamics
-dyniapainGreek ὀδύνη (odúnē)vulvodynia
dys-bad, difficult, defective, abnormalGreek δυσ- (dus-)dysentery, dysphagia, dysphasia

E

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
-eal (see -al)pertaining toEnglish -al, from Latin -ālisadenohypophyseal, corneal, esophageal, perineal
ec-out, awayGreek ἐκ (ek), out of, fromectopia, ectopic pregnancy
ect(o)-outer, outsideGreek ἐκτός (ektós)ectoblast, ectoderm, ectoplasm
-ectasia, -ectasisexpansion, dilationGreek ἔκτασις (éktasis)bronchiectasis, telangiectasia
-ectomydenotes a surgical operation or removal of a body part; resection, excisionGreek ἐκτομή (ektomḗ), excisionmastectomy
-emesisvomiting conditionGreek ἕμεσις (hémesis)hematemesis
-emiablood condition (Am. Engl.)Greek αἷμα (haîma), “blood”anemia
encephal(o)-of or pertaining to the brain; see also cerebro-Greek ἐγκέφαλος (enképhalos), the brainencephalogram
endo-denotes something as inside or withinGreek ἔνδον (éndon), inside, internalendocrinology, endospore, endoskeleton
eosin(o)-having a red colorGreek ἠώς (ēṓs), dawn, daybreak, morning red, goddess of the dawn (Ἠώς, Ēṓs)eosinophil granulocyte
enter(o)-of or pertaining to the intestineGreek ἔντερον (énteron), intestinegastroenterology
epi-on, uponGreek ἐπι- (epi-), before, upon, on, outside, outside ofepicardium, epidermis, epidural, episclera, epistaxis, epidemic
episi(o)-of or pertaining to the pubic region, the loinsGreek ἐπίσιον (epísion), the pubic area, loins; vulvaepisiotomy
erythr(o)-having a red colorGreek ἐρυθρός (eruthrós), rederythrocyte
-esophageal, -esophago-gullet (AmE)Greek οἰσοφάγος (oisophágos)esophagus
esthesio-sensation (AmE)Greek αἴσθησις (aísthēsis), to perceiveesthesioneuroblastoma, esthesia
eu-true, good, well, newεὖ (eû)eukaryote
ex-out of, away fromLatin ex-excision, except
exo-denotes something as “outside” anotherGreek ἔξω (éxō), outside of, externalexophthalmos, exoskeleton, exoplanet
extra-outsideLatin extra, outside of, beyondextradural hematoma extraordinary, extreme

F

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
faci-of or pertaining to the faceLatin faciēs, the face, countenancefacioplegic, facial
fibr-fiberLatin fibra, fiber, filament, entrails[2]fibril, fibrin, fibrinous pericarditis, fibroblast, fibrosis
fil-fine, hair-likeLatin fīlum, threadfilament, filum terminale
foramenhole, opening, or aperture, particularly in boneLatin forāmenforamen magnum
-formused to form adjectives indicating “having the form of”Latin fōrma, form, shapecruciform, cuneiform, falciform
fore-before or aheadOld English fōr(e)-, before, in front offoregut, foreshadow
fossaa hollow or depressed area; a trench or channelLatin fossa, ditch, pitfossa ovalis
front-of or pertaining to the foreheadLatin frōns, front-, the foreheadfrontonasal

G

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
galact-milkGreek γάλα, γαλακτ- (gála, galakt-)galactorrhea, galaxy
gastr-of or pertaining to the stomachGreek γαστήρ, γαστρ- (gastḗr, gastr-), stomach, bellygastroenterology, gastropod
-gen*born in, fromGreek -γενής (-genḗs), from γεν-νάειν (gen-náein), to be born*endogen
of a certain kindheterogenous
-genicformative; pertaining to producingGreek -γενής (-genḗs)cardiogenic shock
genu-of or pertaining to the kneeLatin genū, kneegenu valgum
-geusiatasteGreek γεῦσις (geûsis)ageusia, dysgeusia, hypergeusia, hypogeusia, parageusia
gingiv-of or pertaining to the gumsLatin gingīva, gumgingivitis
glauc(o)-Having a grey or bluish-grey colourGreek γλαυκός (glaukós), grey, bluish-greyglaucoma
gloss(o)-, glott(o)-of or pertaining to the tongueGreek γλῶσσα, γλῶττα (glôssa, glôtta), tongueglossology
gluco-sweetGreek γλυκύς (glukús), sweetglucocorticoid, glucose
glyc-sugarGreek γλυκύς (glukús), sweetglycolysis
gnath-of or pertaining to the jawGreek γνάθος (gnáthos), jawgnathodynamometer
-gnosisknowledgeGreek γνῶσις (gnôsis), inquiry, knowledgediagnosis, prognosis
gon-seed, semen; reproductiveGreek γόνος (gónos), fruit, seed, procreatinggonorrhea
-gram, -grammerecord or pictureGreek γράμμα (grámma), picture, letter, writingangiogram, gramophone
-graphinstrument used to record data or pictureGreek -γραφία (-graphía), written, drawn, graphic interpretationelectrocardiograph, seismograph
-graphyprocess of recordingGreek -γραφία (-graphía), written, drawn, graphic interpretationangiography
gyno-, gynaeco- (BrE), gyneco- (AmE)womanGreek γυνή, γυναικ (gunḗ, gunaik)gynaecology, gynecomastia, gynoecium

H

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
halluc-to wander in mindLatin ālūcinor, to wander in mindhallucinosis, hallucination
hem(at)-, haem(ato)-of or pertaining to bloodLatin hæma[citation needed], from Greek αἷμα, αἱματ- (grc), bloodhematology, older form haematology
hema-, hemo-blood (AmE)Greek αἷμα, (grc), bloodhemal, hemoglobin
hemangi(o)-blood vesselsGreek αἷμα, (grc), blood, + ἀγγεῖον (angeîon), vessel, urnhemangioma
hemi-one-halfGreek ἡμι- (hēmi-), halfcerebral hemisphere
hepat-, hepatic-of or pertaining to the liverGreek ἧπαρ, ἠπᾰτ- (hêpar, ēpat-), the liverhepatology, hepatitis
heter(o)-denotes something as “the other” (of two), as an addition, or differentGreek ἕτερος (héteros), the other (of two), another; differentheterogeneous
hidr(o)-sweatGreek ἱδρώς, ἱδρωτ- (hidrṓs, hidrōt-), sweat, perspirationhyperhidrosis
hist(o)-, histio-tissueGreek ἱστός (histós), web, tissuehistology
home(o)-similarGreek ὅμοιος (homoios), like, resembling, similarhomeopathy
hom(o)-denotes something as “the same” as another or commonGreek ὁμός (homós), the same, commonhomosexuality, homozygote, homophobic
humer(o)-of or pertaining to the shoulder (or [rarely] the upper arm)Latin umerus, shoulderhumerus
hydr(o)-waterGreek ὕδωρ (húdōr), waterhydrophobe, hydrogen
hyper-extreme or beyond normalGreek ὑπέρ (hupér), over, above; beyond, to the extremehypertension, hypertrichosis
hyp(o)-below normalGreek ὑπό, ὑπο- (hupó), below, underhypovolemia, hypoxia
hyster(o)-of or pertaining to the womb or the uterusGreek ὑστέρα (hustéra), wombhysterectomy, hysteria

I

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
-iasiscondition, formation, or presence ofLatin -iasis, pathological condition or process; from Greek ἴασις (íasis), cure, repair, mendmydriasis
iatr(o)-of or pertaining to medicine or a physician (uncommon as a prefix but common as a suffix; see -iatry)Greek ἰατρός (iatrós), healer, physicianiatrochemistry, iatrogenesis
-iatrydenotes a field in medicine emphasizing a certain body componentGreek ἰατρός (iatrós), healer, physicianpodiatry, psychiatry
-icpertaining toGreek -ικός (-ikós)hepatic artery
-icsorganized knowledge, treatmentLatin -icus, collection of related things, theme; cognate with Greek -ικός (ikós), of, pertaining toobstetrics
idio-self, one’s ownGreek ἴδιος (ídios), one’s ownidiopathic
ileo-ileumGreek εἰλεός (eileós), to shut in, intestinal obstructionileocecal valve
infra-belowLatin īnfrā, belowinfrahyoid muscles
inter-between, amongLatin interinterarticular ligament
intra-withinLatin intrāintramural
ipsi-sameLatin ipsi-ipsilateral
irid(o)-of or pertaining to the irisLatin īrīs, rainbow; from Greek ἶρις (îris), rainbowiridectomy
isch-restrictionGreek ἴσχω (ískhō), hold back, restrainischemia
ischio-of or pertaining to the ischium, the hip-jointGreek ἰσχίον (iskhíon), hip-joint, ischiumischioanal fossa
-ineof or pertaining toLatin -īnus, of or pertaining to; cognate with Greek -ινος, added to form adjectives relating to material, time, and so onmorphine, masculine/​feminine
-ismcondition, diseaseGreek -ισμός (-ismós), suffix forming abstract nouns of state, condition, doctrinedwarfism
-ismusspasm, contractionGreek -ισμόςhemiballismus
iso-denoting something as being equalGreek ἴσος (ísos), equalisotonic
-istone who specializes inGreek -ιστής (-istḗs), agent noun, one who practicespathologist
-itethe nature of, resemblingLatin -ītēs, those belonging to, from Greek -ίτης (-ítēs)dendrite
-itisinflammationGreek -ῖτις (-îtis) fem. form of -ίτης (-ítēs), pertaining to, because it was used with the feminine noun νόσος (nósos, disease), thus -îtis nósos, disease of the, disease pertaining totonsillitis
-iumstructure, tissueLatin -ium, aggregation or mass of (such as tissue)pericardium

J-K

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
juxta-near to, alongside, or next toLatin iuxtajuxtaglomerular apparatus
kal-potassiumNew Latin kalium, potassiumhyperkalemia
kary-[3]nucleusGreek κάρυον (káruon), nuteukaryote
kerat-[4]cornea (eye or skin)Greek κέρας (kéras), hornkeratoscope
kine-[5]movementGreek κινέω (kinéō), to move, to changeakinetopsia, kinesthesia
koil-[6]hollowGreek κοῖλος (koîlos)koilocyte
kyph-[7]humpedGreek κυφός (kuphós), bent forward, stooping, hunchbackedkyphoscoliosis

L

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
labi-of or pertaining to the lipLatin labia, labium, liplabiodental
lacrim(o)-tearLatin lacrima, tear from cryingLacrimal canaliculi
lact(i)-, lact(o)milkLatin lac, milklactation
lapar(o)-of or pertaining to the abdominal wall, flankGreek λαπάρα (lapára), flanklaparotomy
laryng(o)-of or pertaining to the larynx, the lower throat cavity where the voice box isGreek λᾰ́ρυγξ, (lárunx), throat, gulletlarynx
latero-lateralLatin laterālis, lateral, of or belonging to the sidelateral pectoral nerve
lei(o)-smoothGreek λεῖος (leîos), smoothleiomyoma
-lepsis, -lepsyattack, seizureGreek λῆψις (lêpsis), seizureepilepsy, narcolepsy
lept(o)-light, slenderGreek λεπτός (leptós), thin, leanleptomeningeal
leuc(o)-, leuk(o)-denoting a white colorGreek λευκός (leukós), white, bright, paleleukocyte
lingu(a)-, lingu(o)-of or pertaining to the tongueLatin lingua, tongue, speech, languagelinguistics
lip(o)-fatGreek λίπος (lípos), fat, lardliposuction
liss(os)-smoothGreek Λισσός (Lissós), smoothlissencephaly
lith(o)-stone, calculusGreek λῐ́θος (líthos)lithotripsy
log(o)-speechGreek λόγος (lógos)dialog, catalog, logos
-logistdenotes someone who studies a certain field (the field of _____-logy); a specialist; one who treatsGreek λογιστής (logistḗs), studier, practitioner (lit., accountant)oncologist, pathologist
-logydenotes the academic study or practice of a certain field; the study ofGreek -λογῐ́ᾱ (-logíā) base noun for the study of somethinghematology, urology
lumb(o)-, lumb(a)-of or relating to the part of the trunk between the lowest ribs and the pelvis.Latin lumbus or lumbaris, loinlumbar vertebrae
lymph(o)-lymphLatin lympha, waterlymphedema
lys(o)-, -lyticdissolutionGreek λῠ́σῐς (lúsis), loosen, release, + -iclysosome
-lysisdestruction, separationGreek λῠ́σῐς (lúsis), loosen, releaseparalysis

M

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
macr(o)-large, longGreek μᾰκρός (makrós), long, tallmacrophage
-malaciasofteningGreek μαλακία (malakía), soft, weak, self-indulgentosteomalacia
mamm(o)-of or pertaining to the breastLatin mamma, breast, uddermammogram
mammill(o)-of or pertaining to the nippleLatin mammilla, nipplemammillaplasty, mammillitis
manu-of or pertaining to the handLatin manus, handmanufacture
mast(o)-of or pertaining to the breastGreek μαστός (mastós), breast, woman’s breast, man’s pectoral musclemastectomy
meg(a)-, megal(o)-, -megalyenlargement, millionGreek μέγᾰς (mégas), big, large, great, mightysplenomegaly, megameter
melan(o)-having a black colorGreek μέλᾱς, μελανο- (mélās, melano-), black, darkmelanin
melosextremityGreek μέλος (mélos), part of a body, limb, membererythromelalgia
mening(o)-membraneGreek μῆνῐγξ (mêninx)meningitis
men-month, menstrual cycleGreek μήν (mḗn), monthmenopause, menorrhagia
mer-partGreek μέρος (méros), part, component, regionmerocrine, meroblastic
mes-middleGreek μέσος (mésos), middle, between, halfmesoderm
met, meta-after, beside, beyond or changeGreek μετᾰ́ (metá), with, among, along with, in common withmetacarpal, metacarpus, metacromion, metanephros, metatheria
-meterinstrument used to measure or countGreek μέτρον (métron), measure or property, something used to measuresphygmomanometer, thermometer
-metryprocess of measuring, -meter + -y (see -meter)Greek μέτρον (métron)optometry
metr-pertaining to conditions or instruments of the uterusGreek μήτρᾱ (mḗtrā), womb, uterusmetrorrhagia
micr-millionth; denoting something as small, relating to smallnessGreek μῑκρός (mīkrós), smallmicroscope
milli-thousandthLatin mille, thousandmilliliter
mon-singleGreek μονός (monós)infectious mononucleosis
morph-form, shapeGreek μορφή (morphḗ)morphology
muscul(o)-muscleLatin mūsculus, muscle (lit. mouse-like, due to mouse-shaped appearance of some muscles; loanword from Greek μῦς (mûs), mouse, + Latin -culus, diminutive suffix)musculoskeletal system
my(o)-of or relating to muscleGreek μῦς, μυ- (mûs, mu-), muscle, mouse, musselmyoblast
myc(o)-fungusGreek μύκης, μυκητ-onychomycosis
myel(o)-of or relating to bone marrow or the spinal cordGreek μυελός (muelós), marrow, bone-marrowmyelin sheath, myeloblast
myl(o)-of or relating to molar teeth or the lower jawGreek μῠ́λη (múlē, mill, grind, molarsmylohyoid nerve
myri-ten thousandGreek μῡρῐ́ος (mūríos), innumerable, countless, infinitemyriad
myring(o)-eardrumLatin myringa, eardrummyringotomy
myx(o)-mucusGreek μύξᾰ (múxa), mucus, nasal dischargemyxoma

N

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
nan(o)-dwarf, smallGreek νᾶνος (nânos), dwarfnanogram, nanosecond
narc(o)-numb, sleepGreek νάρκη (nárkē), numbess, torpornarcolepsy
nas(o)-of or pertaining to the noseLatin nāsus, nosenasal
nat(o)-birthLatin nātus, born, arisen, madeneonatology
necr(o)-deathGreek νεκρός (nekrós), dead body, corpse, dying personnecrosis, necrotizing fasciitis
neo-newGreek νέος (néos), young, youthful, new, freshneoplasm
nephr(o)-of or pertaining to the kidneyGreek νεφρός (nephrós), kidneynephrology
nerv-of or pertaining to nerves and the nervous system (uncommon as a root: neuro- mostly always used)Latin nervus, tendon, nerve; cognate with Greek νεῦρον (neûron), tendon, string, nervenerve, nervous system
neur-of or pertaining to nerves and the nervous systemGreek νεῦρον (neûron), tendon, sinew, nerveneurofibromatosis
noci-pain, injury, hurtLatin noceōnociception
norm-normalLatin nōrma, norm or standard; lit. carpenter’s squarenormocapnia

O

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
ocul-of or pertaining to the eyeLatin oculus, the eyeOculist
odont-of or pertaining to teethGreek ὀδούς, ὀδοντ- (odoús, odont-, toothorthodontist
odyn-painGreek ὀδύνη (odúnē)stomatodynia
-oesophageal, oesophago- (BrE)gulletGreek οἰσοφᾰ́γος (oisophágos)oesophagus
-oidresemblance toGreek -ειδής (-eidḗs), like, connected to, pertaining toSarcoidosis
olesmall or littleLatin -olus, suffix to form a diminutive of the nounarteriole
olig-having little, having fewGreek ὀλῐ́γος (olígos), fewoligotrophy
om(o)-shoulderGreek ὦμος (ômos), shoulderomoplate
-oma (singular), -omata (plural)tumor, mass, fluid collectionGreek -μα (-ma), suffix added to verbs to form nouns indicating the result of a process or action; cf. English -tionsarcoma, teratoma, mesothelioma
omphal(o)-of or pertaining to the navel, the umbilicusGreek ὀμφαλός (omphalós), navel, belly-buttonomphalotomy
onco-tumor, bulk, volumeGreek ὄγκος (ónkos)oncology
-onehormone
onych(o)-of or pertaining to the nail (of a finger or toe)Greek ὄνυξ, ὀνυχο- (ónux, onukho-), nail; claw; talononychophagy
oo-of or pertaining to an (egg), a woman’s egg, the ovumGreek ᾠόν, ᾠο- (ōión, ōio-), egg, ovumoogenesis
oophor(o)-of or pertaining to the woman’s (ovary)Neoclassical Greek ᾠοφόρον (ōiophóron), ovary, egg-bearingoophorectomy
ophthalm(o)-of or pertaining to the (eye)Greek ὀφθαλμός (ophthalmós), the eyeophthalmology
opistho-back, behind, rear[8]Greek ὄπῐσθεν (ópisthen), behind, at the backopisthotonus
-opsyexamination or inspectionGreek ὄψῐς (ópsis), viewbiopsy, autopsy
optic(o)-of or relating to chemical properties of the eyeMiddle French optique; from Greek ὀπτῐκός (optikós); cognate with Latin oculus, relating to the eyeopticochemical, biopsy
or(o)-of or pertaining to the mouthLatin ōs, ōris, mouthoral
-orone who, agent noun–forming suffixgenerally appended where Latin would do it—to the root of a Latin-type perfect passive participle. Cf. -erdoctor
orchi(o)-, orchid(o)-, orch(o)-testisGreek ὄρχις (órkhis), testicle, ovaryorchiectomy, orchidectomy
orth(o)-denoting something as straight or correctGreek ὀρθός (orthós), straight, correct, normalorthodontist
-osisa condition, disease or increaseGreek -ωσις (-ōsis), state, abnormal condition, actionHarlequin type ichthyosis, psychosis, osteoporosis
ossi-, osse-bone, bonyLatin os, boneperipheral ossifying fibroma, osseous
ost(e)-, oste(o)-boneGreek ὀστέον (ostéon), boneosteoporosis, osteoarthritis
ot(o)-of or pertaining to the earGreek οὖς, ὠτ- (oûs, ōt-), the earotology
-ouspertaining toLatin -ōsus, full of, prone toporous
ovari(o)-of or pertaining to the ovariesLatin ōvarium, ovaryovariectomy
ovo-, ovi-, ov-of or pertaining to the eggs, the ovumLatin (ōvum), egg, ovumovogenesis
oxo-, ox/iaddition of oxygen
oxy-sharp, acid, acute; oxygenborrowed from French oxygène (originally principe oxigine, ‘acidifying principle’, referring to oxygen’s role in the formation of acids, from Greek ὀξύς (oxús), sharp, pointed + γένος (génos), birth)oxytocin, oxygenated, oxycodone

P

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
pachy-thickGreek πᾰχῠ́ς (pakhús), thick, large, stoutpachyderma, pachyderm
-pagusIndicates conjoined twins, with the first part denoting the organs fusedGreek πάγος (págos), fixed, set, fastenedxiphopagus
palpebr-| of or pertaining to the eyelid (uncommon as a root)! scope=”row” | palpebr-of or pertaining to the eyelid (uncommon as a root)Latin palpebra, eyelidpalpebra
pan-, pant(o)-denoting something as ‘complete’ or containing ‘everything’; “all”Greek πᾶς, παν- (pâs, pan-), all, everypanophobia, panopticon, pancytopenia (deficiency in all blood cell types – erythrocytes, leukocytes, thrombocytes)[9]
papill-of or pertaining to the nipple (of the chest/breast)Latin papilla, nipple; diminutive of papula (see below)papillitis
papul(o)-Indicates papulosity, a small elevation or swelling in the skin, a pimple, swellingLatin papula, pimple, pustle; a small elevation or swelling in the skinpapulation
para-alongside ofGreek πᾰρᾰ́ (pará)paracyesis
-paresisslight paralysisGreek πάρεσις (páresis)hemiparesis
parvo-smallLatin parvus, small, little, unimportantParvovirus
path(o)-diseaseGreek πᾰ́θος (páthos), pain, suffering, conditionPathology
-pathydenotes (with a negative sense) a disease, or disorderGreek πᾰ́θος (páthos), suffering, accidentsociopathy, neuropathy
pauci-FewLatin paucusPauci-immune
pector-breast or chestLatin pectuspectoralgia, pectoriloquy, pectorophony
ped-, -ped-, -pesof or pertaining to the foot; -footedLatin pēs, pēd-, footPedoscope
ped-, pedo-of or pertaining to the childGreek παῖς, παιδός (paîs, paidós), childpediatrics. pedophilia
pelv(i)-, pelv(o)-hip boneLatin pelvis, basinPelvis
-peniadeficiencyGreek πενῐ́ᾱ, poverty, indigenceosteopenia
peo-of or pertaining to the penisGreek πέος (péos)Peotomy
-pepsiadenotes something relating to digestion, or the digestive tract.Greek πεπτός (peptós), cooked, digested < πέσσω (péssō), I boil, cook; digestdyspepsia
per-throughLatin per, through, by means ofpercutaneous
peri-denoting something with a position ‘surrounding’ or ‘around’ anotherGreek περῐ́ (perí), around, about, concerningperiodontal
-pexyfixationGreek πῆξις (pêxis), fixing in place, fasteningnephropexy
phaco-lens-shapedGreek φᾰκός (phakós), lentil-beanphacolysis, phacometer, phacoscotoma
-phagia, -phageForms terms denoting conditions relating to eating or ingestionGreek φαγία (phagía) eating < φᾰγεῖν (phageîn), to eatSarcophagia
-phago-eating, devouringGreek -φᾰ́γος (-phágos), eater of, eatingphagocyte
phagist-Forms nouns that denote a person who ‘feeds on’ the first element or part of the wordGreek φαγιστής (phagistḗs) eater; see -phagiaLotophagi
-phagyForms nouns that denotes ‘feeding on’ the first element or part of the wordGreek φαγία (phagia) eating; see -phagiahematophagy
phall-phallusGreek φαλλός (phallós), penisAphallia
pharmac-drug, medicationGreek φάρμᾰκον (phármakon), witchcraft, drugpharmacology
pharyng-of or pertaining to the pharynx, the upper throat cavityGreek φᾰ́ρῠγξ, φαρυγγ- (phárunx, pharung-), throat, windpipe; chasmpharyngitis, pharyngoscopy
-phil(ia)attraction forGreek φῐλῐ́ᾱ (philíā), friendship, love, affectionhemophilia
phleb-of or pertaining to the (blood) veins, a veinGreek φλέψ, φλεβ- (phléps, phleb-), blood-vessel, veinphlebography, phlebotomy
-phobiaexaggerated fear, sensitivity, aversionGreek φόβος (phóbos), terror, fear, flight, panicarachnophobia
phon-soundGreek φωνή (phōnḗ)phonograph, symphony
phos-of or pertaining to light or its chemical properties, now historic and used rarely. See the common root phot- below.Greek φῶς, φᾰ́ος, φωτ- (phôs, pháos), lightphosphene
phot-of or pertaining to lightGreek φωτω- (phōtō-), < φῶς (phôs), lightphotopathy
phren-, phrenic-the mindGreek φρήν (phrḗn), intellect, wits, mindphrenic nerve, schizophrenia
phyllo-leaf-likeGreek φῠ́λλον (phúllon), leaf, foliage, plantphyllodes tumour, phyllotaxis
-phyte, phyto-to growGreek φῠτόν (phutón), plant, treehydrophyte
piasoftMedieval Latin pia mater, tender mother, from Latin pia, pius, pious, dutiful, goodpia mater
piri-PearLatin pirum, cognate with Greek ἄπιον (ápion), pearPiriformis muscle
-plasiaformation, developmentGreek πλᾰ́σῐς (plásis), moulding, conformationAchondroplasia
-plastysurgical repair, reconstructionGreek πλαστός (plastós), molded, formedrhinoplasty
-plegiaparalysisGreek πληγή (plēgḗ), stroke (from a sword), from πληγή (plēgḗ), to strike or smiteparaplegia
pleio-more, excessive, multipleGreek πλεῖον (pleîon), morepleiomorphism
pleur-of or pertaining to the ribsGreek πλευρᾱ́ (pleurā́), rib, side of the bodyPleurogenous
-plexystroke or seizureGreek πλήσσω, πλήσσειν (plḗssō, plḗssein), to strike or smiteCataplexy
pne-, pneum-air, breath, lungGreek πνεῖν (pneîn), πνεῦμα, πνεύματος (pneûma, pneúmatos), πνεύμων (pneúmōn)apnea, pneumatology, pneumonocyte, pneumonia
pod-, -pod-, -pusof or pertaining to the foot, -footedGreek πούς, ποδ- (poús, pod-), footpodiatry
-poiesisproductionGreek ποίησις (poíēsis), poetry, poem, creationhematopoiesis
polio-having a grey colorGreek πολῐός (poliós), grey, grizzledpoliomyelitis
poly-denotes a ‘plurality’ of somethingGreek πολῠ́ς (polús), many, a lot of, large, greatpolymyositis
por-pore, porousGreek πόρος (póros), passage, passagewaypore
porphyr-denotes a purple colorGreek πορφύρα (porphúra), Tyrian purple, royal purpleporphyroblast
post-denotes something as ‘after (time)’ or ‘behind (space)’ anotherLatin post, after, behindpostoperation, postmortem
pre-denotes something as ‘before’ another (in [physical] position or time)Middle English pre-, from Medieval Latin pre- < (Classical) Latin prae-, before, in front ofpremature birth
presby-old ageGreek πρέσβυς (présbus), old man, elderpresbyopia, presbycusis[10]
prim-denotes something as ‘first’ or ‘most-important’Latin prīmus, first, most importantprimary
pro-denotes something as ‘before’ another (in [physical] position or time)Greek πρό- (pró-), before, in front ofprocephalic
proct-anus, rectumGreek πρωκτός (prōktós), anusproctology
prosop-faceGreek πρόσωπον (prósōpon), face, visage, maskprosopagnosia
prot-denotes something as ‘first’ or ‘most important’Greek πρωτος (prōtos), first; principal, most importantprotoneuron
pseud-denotes something false or fakeGreek ψεύδω (pseúdō), to lie or deceivepseudoephedrine
psor-ItchingGreek ψώρα (psṓra), itch, mange, scurvypsoriasis
psych-of or pertaining to the mindGreek ψυχή (psukhḗ), breath, life, soulpsychology, psychiatry
ptero-, ptery-Pertaining to a wing; ‘pterygo-‘, wing-shapedGreek πτερόν (pterón), wing, featherlateral pterygoid plate
-ptosisfalling, drooping, downward placement, prolapseGreek πτῶσῐς (ptôsis), fallingapoptosis, nephroptosis
-ptyal-, ptyalosaliva, salivary glands, sialadenptyalolithiasis
-ptysisspittingGreek πτῡ́ω (ptū́ō), to spit up, disgorge; + -σις (-sis), added to verb stems to form abstract nouns or nouns of action, result or processhemoptysis, the spitting of blood derived from the lungs or bronchial tubes
pulmon-, pulmo-of or relating to the lungsLatin pulmō, a lungpulmonary
py-pusGreek πύον (púonpyometra
pyel-pelvisGreek πύελος (púelos), pelvis, wash basinpyelonephritis
pykno-to thicken (as the nucleus does in early stages of cell death)Greek πύκνωσις (púknōsis), thickeningpyknosis
pylor-gateGreek πυλωρός (pulōrós), gate keeper; lower orifice of the stomachpyloric sphincter
pyr-feverGreek πῦρ, πυρετός (pûr, puretós), fire, heat, feverantipyretic

Q-R

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
quadr(i)-fourLatin quattuorquadriceps
radi-radiationLatin radiō, I radiate, emit beams; from radius, ray of light, spoke of a wheelradiowave
radic-referring to the beginning, or the root, of a structure, usually a nerve or a veinLatin rādīx, rootradiculopathy
re-again, backLatin re-relapse
rect-rectumabbr. of New Latin rectum intestinum (‘straight intestine’) < Latin rēctus, straightrectal, rectum, rectus femoris
ren-of or pertaining to the kidneyLatin rēn, rēnes, kidneyrenal
reticul(o)-netLatin rēticulumreticulocyte
retro-backward, behindLatin retroretroversion, retroverted
rhabd(o)-rod shaped, striatedGreek ῥᾰ́βδος (rhábdos), wand, stick, striperhabdomyolysis
rhachi(o)-spineGreek ῥάχις (rhákhis), spine or backbonerachial, rachialgia, rachidian, rachiopathy
rhin(o)-of or pertaining to the noseGreek ῥίς, ῥῑνο- (rhís, rhīno-), noserhinoceros, rhinoplasty
rhod(o)-denoting a rose-red colorGreek ῥόδον (rhódon), roserhodophyte
-rrhage, -rrhagiaburst forth, rapid flow (of blood, usually)Greek -ραγία (-ragía), to break, to bursthemorrhage, menorrhagia
-rrhaphysurgical suturingGreek ῥαφή (rhaphḗ)hymenorrhaphy, neurorrhaphy
-rrhea (AmE)flowing, dischargeGreek ῥοίᾱ (rhoíā), flow, fluxgalactorrhea, diarrhea
-rrhexisruptureGreek ῥῆξῐς (rhêxis), breaking, bursting, dischargekaryorrhexis
-rrhoea (BrE)flowing, dischargeGreek ῥοίᾱ (rhoíā), flow, fluxdiarrhoea
rubr(o)-of or pertaining to the red nucleus of the brainLatin ruber, redrubrospinal
-ruptbreak or burstLatin rumpōerupt, interrupt

S

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
salping(o)-of or pertaining to tubes, e.g. Fallopian tubesGreek σᾰ́λπῐγξ, σαλπιγγ-, (sálpinx, salping-), trumpetsalpingectomy, salpingopharyngeus muscle
sangui-, sanguine-of or pertaining to bloodLatin sanguis, bloodsanguine
sapro-relating to putrefaction or decayGreek σαπρός (saprós), rotten, putridsaprogenic
sarco-muscular, flesh-likeGreek σάρξ (sárx), fleshsarcoma, sarcoidosis
schist(o)-split, cleftGreek σχῐστός (skhistós), cloven, dividedschistocyte
schiz(o)-denoting something “split” or “double-sided”Greek σχῐ́ζω (skhízō), I split, cleave, part; irregular formation of the verb σχῐ́ζειν (skhízein), to cut, splitschizophrenia
scler(o)-hardGreek σκληρός (sklērós)scleroderma
-sclerosishardeningGreek σκληρός (sklērós), hard, harden; + -σῐς (-sis), added to verb stems to form abstract nouns or nouns of action, result or processatherosclerosis, multiple sclerosis
scoli(o)-twistedGreek σκολιός (skoliós), curved, bentscoliosis
-scopeinstrument for viewingGreek σκόπος (skópos), watcherstethoscope
-scopyprocess of viewingGreek σκοπέω (skopéō), to look at, behold, examineendoscopy
scoto-darknessGreek σκότος (skótos)scotopic vision
semi-one-half, partlyLatin semi-semiconscious
sial(o)-saliva, salivary glandLatin salīva, saliva.sialagogue
sigmoid(o)-sigmoid, S-shaped curvatureGreek σιγμοειδής (sigmoeidḗs), crescent-shaped, lunate sigma-shapedsigmoid colon
sinistr(o)-left, left sideLatin sinister
sinus-of or pertaining to the sinusLatin sinus, a curve, bend, hollow cavity, bosomsinusitis
sito-food, grainGreek σῖτος (sîtos)sitophobia
somat(o)-, somatico-body, bodilyGreek σῶμα (sôma)somatic
somn(o)SleepLatin somnus, sleep, drowsinessinsomniac[11]
-spadiasslit, fissureGreek σπάω (spáō), break, splithypospadias, epispadias
spasmo-spasmGreek σπασμός (spasmós)Spasmodic dysphonia
sperma-, spermo-, spermato-semen, spermatozoaGreek σπέρμα (spérma), seed, semenspermatogenesis
splanchn(i)-, splanchn(o)-visceraGreek σπλᾰ́γχνον (splánkhnon), bowels, gutssplanchnology
splen(o)-spleenGreek σπλήν, σπλην- (splḗn, splēn-), spleen, miltsplenectomy
spondyl(o)-of or pertaining to the spine, the vertebraGreek σφόνδῠλος / σπόνδυλος (sphóndulos, spóndulos), the spinespondylitis
squamos(o)-denoting something as “full of scales” or “scaly”Latin squāmōsus, full of scales, scalysquamous cell
-stalsiscontractionGreek στέλλω (stéllō), I dispatch, place, setperistalsis
-stasisstopping, standingGreek στᾰ́σῐς (stásis), to stand, place, setcytostasis, homeostasis
-staxisdripping, tricklingGreek στάζω, στακτός (stázō, staktós), drip, leak, trickle
sten(o)-denoting something as narrow in shape or pertaining to narrownessGreek στενός (stenós), narrow, shortstenography
-stenosisabnormal narrowing of a blood vessel or other tubular organ or structureGreek στενός (stenós), narrow, short; + -σῐς (-sis), added to verb stems to form abstract nouns or nouns of action, result or processrestenosis, stenosis
steth-of or pertaining to the upper chest, the area above the breast and under the neckGreek στῆθος (stêthos), chest, cuirassstethoscope
stheno-strength, force, powerGreek σθένος (sthénos)
stom-, stomat-of or pertaining to the mouth; an artificially created opening[12]Greek στόμᾰ, στοματ- (stóma, stomat-), mouthstomatogastric, stomatognathic system
-stomycreation of an openingNew Latin stoma, opening; from Greek στόμᾰ (stóma)colostomy
sub-beneath, underLatin subsubcutaneous tissue
super-in excess, above, superiorLatin supersuperior vena cava
supra-above, excessiveLatin suprasupraorbital vein
sy, syl-, sym-, syn-, sys-indicates similarity, likeness, or being together; assimilates before some consonants: before l to syl-, s to sys-, before a labial consonant to sym-Greek σῠν- (sun-), with, togethersymptom, synalgia, synesthesia, syssarcosis

T

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
tachy-denoting something as fast, irregularly fastGreek τᾰχῠ́ς (takhús), fast, quicklytachycardia
-tension, -tensivepressureLatin tēnsiō, stretching, extension, tensionhypertension
terato-MonsterGreek τέρᾰς (téras)teratoma, teratogen
tetan-rigid, tenseGreek τέτανος (tétanos)tetanus
thec-case, sheathGreek θήκη (thḗkē)intrathecal
thel-of or pertaining to a nipple (uncommon as a prefix)Greek θηλή (thēlḗ), a teat, nippleTheleplasty, thelarche
thely-denoting something as relating to a woman, feminineGreek θῆλῠς (thêlus), female, feminineThelygenous
therap-treatmentGreek θερᾰπείᾱ (therapeíā)hydrotherapy, therapeutic
therm(o)-heatGreek θερμός (thermós)hypothermia
thorac(i)-, thorac(o)-, thoracico-of or pertaining to the upper chest, chest; the area above the breast and under the neckLatin thōrāx < Greek θώρᾱξ (thṓrāx), chest, cuirassthoracic, thorax
thromb(o)-of or relating to a blood clot, clotting of bloodGreek θρόμβος (thrómbos), lump, piece, clot of bloodthrombus, thrombocytopenia
thyr(o)-thyroidGreek θῠρεός (thureós), large oblong shield; + εἶδος (eîdos), a form or shape
thym-emotionsGreek θῡμός (thūmós), spirit, soul; courage; breath, mind, emotionsdysthymia
-ticpertaining toGreek -τῐκός (-tikós), adjective-forming suffix denoting: relating to, able to, suited to
toco-childbirthGreek τόκος (tókos)tocolytic
-tomecutting instrumentGreek τομή (tomḗ), intersection
-tomyact of cutting; incising, incisionGreek τομία (-tomía)Gastrotomy
ton-tone, tension, pressureGreek τόνος (tónos), rope, cord; tension
-tonytensionGreek -τονία (-tonía)
top(o)-place, topicalGreek τόπος (tópos)Topical anesthetic
tort(i)-twistedLatin tortusTorticollis
tox(i)-, tox(o)-, toxic(o)-toxin, poisonGreek τοξικόν (toxikón), bow (archery), bow-related; from Greek τοξικόν φάρμᾰκον (toxikón phármakon), poison for smearing arrows withToxoplasmosis
trache(a)-tracheaGreek τραχεῖα (trakheîa), windpipeTracheotomy
trachel(o)-of or pertaining to the neckGreek τρᾰ́χηλος (trákhēlos), necktracheloplasty
trans-denoting something as moving or situated across or throughLatin trāns, across, throughTransfusion
tri-threeLatin tri-triangle, triceps
trich(i)-, trichia, trich(o)-of or pertaining to hair, hair-like structureGreek θρῐ́ξ (thríx), hairtrichocyst
-tripsycrushingGreek τρῖψις (trípsis), rubbing, frictionlithotripsy
-trophynourishment, developmentGreek τροφή (trophḗ), food, nourishmentpseudohypertrophy
-tropturned toward, with an orientation toward, having an affinity for, affectingGreek τρόπος (trópos), a turn, way, manner, stylegeotropic, phototropic
tympan(o)-eardrumGreek τῠ́μπᾰνον (túmpanon), drum, eardrumtympanocentesis

U

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
-ula, -ulesmallLatinNodule
ultra-beyond, excessiveLatin ultraultrasound, ultraviolet
umbilic-of or pertaining to the navel, the umbilicusLatin umbilīcus, navel, belly-buttonumbilical
ungui-of or pertaining to the nail, a clawLatin unguis, nail, clawunguiform, ungual
un(i)-oneLatin ūnusunilateral hearing loss
ur-of or pertaining to urine, the urinary systemGreek οὐρέω, οὐρεῖν (ouréō, oureîn); οὖρον (oûron), urineantidiuretic, diuresis, diuretic, dysuria, enuresis, polyurea, polyuria, uraemia/uremia, uremic, ureter, urethra, urology
urin-of or pertaining to urine, the urinary systemLatin ūrīna, urine < Greek οὖρον (oûron), see ur- above.uriniferous
uter(o)-of or pertaining to the uterus or wombLatin uterus, womb, uterusuterus

V

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
vagin-of or pertaining to the vaginaLatin vāgīna, sheath, scabbard; vaginavaginal epithelium
varic(o)-swollen or twisted veinLatin varixvaricose, esophageal varices
vas(o)-duct, blood vesselLatin vās, vessel, dish, vasevasoconstriction
vasculo-blood vesselLatin vāsculumcardiovascular
ven-of or pertaining to the veins, venous blood, and the vascular systemLatin vēna, blood-vessel, veinvenule, venospasm
ventr(o)-of or pertaining to the belly, the stomach cavitiesLatin venter, belly, stomach, wombventrodorsal
ventricul(o)-of or pertaining to the ventricles; any hollow region inside an organLatin ventriculus, the ventricles of the heart, the ventricles of the braincardiac ventriculography, atrioventricular node
-versionturningLatin versiōanteversion, retroversion
vesic(o)-of or pertaining to the bladderLatin vēsīca, bladder, blistervesical arteries
viscer(o)-of or pertaining to the internal organs, the visceraLatin viscus (pl. viscera), internal organ(s)viscera

X-Z

AffixMeaningOrigin language and etymologyExample(s)
xanth(o)-having a yellow color, especially an abnormally yellow colorGreek ξᾰνθός (xanthós), yellowxanthopathy
xanthelasma
xen(o)-foreign, differentGreek ξένος (xénos), foreign, strangerxenograft
xer(o)-dry, desert-likeGreek ξηρός (xērós), dryxerostomia, xeroderma
xiph-swordGreek ξῐ́φος (xíphos), swordxiphisternum, xiphoid, xiphoidalgia
-ycondition or process ofLatin -ia, from Greek -ῐ́ᾱ, -ειᾰ (-íā, -eia), suffixes used to form abstract nounssurgery
ze-boilGreek ζέω (zéō), to boil, seethe, bubbleeczema
zo(o)-animal, animal lifeGreek ζῷον (zôion)zoology
zym(o)-fermentationGreek ζύμη (zúmē), leaven, yeastenzyme, lysozyme

Bodily Concept

Bodily conceptGreek root in EnglishLatin root in EnglishOther root in English
digestion-pepsia––
disease-pathy––
eating-phagia-vory–

Body Parts and Substances

Body part or componentGreek root in EnglishLatin root in EnglishOther root in English
abdomenlapar-abdomin-–
aortaaort-––
armbrachi-arm-–
armpitmaschal-axill-–
arteryarteri-––
backnot-dors-–
big toe–allic-, hallic-–
bladdercyst-vesic-–
bloodhaemat-, hemat- (haem-, hem-)sangui-, sanguin-–
blood clotthromb-––
blood vesselangi-vas-, vascul-–
bodysomat-, som-corpor-–
boneoste-ossi-–
bone marrow, marrowmyel-medull-–
brainencephal-cerebr-–
breastmast-mamm-–
cheststeth-pector-–
cheekparei-bucc-–
earot(o)-aur(i)-–
eggs, ovaoo-ov-–
eyeophthalm(o)-ocul(o)-optic(o)- (French)
eyelidblephar(o)-cili-, palpebr-–
faceprosop(o)-faci(o)-–
fallopian tubessalping(o)-––
fat, fatty tissuelip(o)-adip-–
fingerdactyl(o)-digit-–
forehead–front(o)-–
gallbladdercholecyst(o)-fell-–
genitals, sexually undifferentiatedgon(o)-, phall(o)-––
glandaden(o)-––
glans penis or clitoridisbalan(o)-––
gums–gingiv-–
hairtrich(o)-capill-–
handscheir(o)-, chir(o)-manu-–
headcephal(o)-capit(o)-–
heartcardi(o)-cordi-–
hip, hip-joint–cox-–
horncerat(o)-cornu-–
intestineenter(o)-––
jawgnath(o)-––
kidneynephr(o)-ren-–
kneegon-genu-–
lipcheil(o)-, chil(o)-labi(o)-–
liverhepat(o)-, (hepatic-)jecor-–
loins, pubic regionepisi(o)-pudend-–
lungspneumon-pulmon(i)-, (pulmo-)–
marrow, bone marrowmyel(o)-medull-–
mindpsych-ment-–
mouthstomat(o)-or-–
musclemy(o)-––
nailonych(o)-ungui-–
navelomphal(o)-umbilic-–
necktrachel(o)-cervic-–
nerve; the nervous systemneur(o)-nerv-–
nipple, teatthele-papill-, mammill-–
noserhin(o)-nas-–
ovaryoophor(o)-ovari(o)-–
pelvispyel(o)-pelv(i)-–
penispe(o)-––
pupil (of the eye)cor-, core-, coro-––
ribpleur(o)-cost(o)-–
rib cagethorac(i)-, thorac(o)-––
shoulderom(o)-humer(o)-–
sinus–sinus-–
skindermat(o)-, (derm-)cut-, cuticul-–
skullcrani(o)-––
stomachgastr(o)-ventr(o)-–
testisorchi(o)-, orchid(o)-––
throat (upper throat cavity)pharyng(o)-––
throat (lower throat cavity/voice box)laryng(o)-––
thumb–pollic-–
toothodont(o)-dent(i)-–
tonguegloss-, glott-lingu(a)-–
toedactyl(o)-digit-–
tumourcel-, onc(o)-tum-–
ureterureter(o)-ureter(o)-–
urethraurethr(o)-, urethr(a)-urethr(o)-, urethr(a)-–
urine, urinary systemur(o)-urin(o)-–
uterine tubessalping(o)-salping(o)-–
uterushyster(o)-, metr(o)-uter(o)-–
vaginacolp(o)-vagin-–
veinphleb(o)-ven-–
vulvaepisi(o)-vulv-–
wombhyster(o)-, metr(o)-uter(o)-–
wristcarp(o)-carp(o)-–

Colour

ColourGreek root in EnglishLatin root in EnglishOther root in English
blackmelan-atr-, nigr-–
bluecyan-cerule-–
goldchrys-aur-–
gray, greypoli-can-–
greenchlor-vir-–
purpleporphyr-purpur-, purpureo-–
rederythr-, rhod-rub-, rubr-, ruf-–
red-orangecirrh-––
silver–argent-–
whiteleuc-, leuk-alb-, cand-–
yellowxanth-flav-jaun- (French)

Description

DescriptionGreek root in EnglishLatin root in EnglishOther root in English
bad, incorrectcac-, dys-mal-mis-
bent, crookedankyl-prav-–
bigmega-, megal(o)-magn(i)-–
biggestmegist-maxim-–
broad, wideeury-lat(i)-–
coldcry(o)-frig(i)-–
deadnecr(o)-mort-–
equalis(o)-equ(i)-–
FALSEpseud(o)-fals(i)-–
fasttachy-celer-–
female, femininethely-––
flatplaty-plan(i)-–
good, welleu-ben(e)-, bon(i)-–
greatmega-, megal(o)-magn(i)-–
hardscler(o)-dur(i)-–
heavybar(o)-grav(i)-–
hollowcoel(o)-cav(i)-–
hugemegal(o)-magn(i)-–
irregularpoikil(o)––
large; extremely largemega-magn(i)-–
largestmegist-maxim-–
longmacr(o)-long(i)-–
male, masculinearseno-vir-–
narrowsten(o)-angust(i)-–
newne(o)-nov(i)-–
normal, correctorth(o)-rect(i)-–
oldpaleo-veter-–
sharpoxy-ac-–
shortbrachy-brev(i)-–
smallmicr(o)-parv(i)- (rare)–
smallest–minim-–
slowbrady-tard(i)-–
softmalac(o)-moll(i)-–
straightorth(o)-rect(i)-–
thickpachy-crass(i)-–
varied, variouspoikilo-vari-–

Position

DescriptionGreek root in EnglishLatin root in EnglishOther root in English
around, surroundingperi-circum-–
internal, withinendo-intra-–
leftlevo-laev-, sinistr-–
middlemeso-, mes-medi-–
rightdexi-dex-, dextr-, dextro-–

Quantity or Amount

DescriptionGreek root in EnglishLatin root in EnglishOther root in English
doublediplo-dupli-–
equaliso-equi-–
fewoligo-pauci-–
halfhemi-semi-demi- (French)
many, muchpoly-multi-–
twicedis-bis-–

Annotate

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Anatomy and Physiology
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