Chapter 1: Elements of Medical Words Flashcards
(30 cards)
what are the 4 elements of a medical term?
- Word Root
- Combining Form
- Suffix
- Prefix
Define Word Root
The foundation of a medical term, contains the primary meaning.
Define: Combining Form
A word that is created from a root word and a vowel.
The vowel is usually “o” but sometimes an “i”.
Define: Suffix
A word element placed at the end of a word that alters its meaning.
Define: Prefix
A word element attached at the beginning of a word or word root.
Usually indicate a number, time, position, direction, or negation.
What are the 3 steps for defining medical words?
- Define the suffix.
- Define the first part of the word (Root word, combining form, or prefix).
- Define the middle parts of the word.
Give an example.
Gastroenteritis.
- Suffix = itis (meaning inflammation).
- Gastr/o (meaning stomach)
- Define middle part of word (Enter meaning intestine).
Gasstroenteritis –> Inflammation of stomach and intestine.
What are the two word roots for skin?
- Dermat
- Cutane (Pertaining to skin)
What is the root word for kidney?
- Nephr
- Ren
What is the root word for mouth?
- Stomat
- Or (oral)
What is the combining form for the meaning “red”?
Erythr/o
What is the combining form for the meaning “Stomach”?
Gastr/o
What is the combining form for “Liver”?
Hepat/o
What is the combining form for “immune, immunity, or safe”?
Immuno
What is the combining form for “Kidney”?
Nephr/o
What is the combining word for the word “Bone”?
Oste/o
What does “itis” stand for? Provide an example
Inflammation
Gastritis = inflammation of stomach
What does “Megaly” stand for? Provide an example.
Enlargement
Gastromegaly = enlargement of stomach
What does “oma” mean? Provide an example.
Tumour
Hepatoma = tumour of the liver.
What does “Cyte” mean? Provide an example.
Cell
Hepatocytes = cells in the liver.
What does the prefix “an” mean? Provide an example.
“An” = without, not
Ex: Anesthesia = (condition of not feeling)
What does the prefix “hyper” mean? Provide an example.
“Hyper” = excessive, above normal.
Hyperthermia = condition of excessive heat.
What does the prefix “Intra” mean?
“Intra” = in, within.
Intramuscular = within the muscle(s).
What does the prefix “Para” mean?
Para = beside, beyond.
Paranasal = pertaining to the area near the nose.
