Medical Terminology Components Quiz

Study Notes

Word Components and Definitions

dist/o: Refers to something being distant or away from a given point.
dolich/o: Indicates length, emphasizing characteristics of being long or elongated.
dolor/o: Pertains specifically to pain; often used in medical terms related to discomfort.
dors/o: Relates to the back; important in anatomy and describing locations on the body.
drom/o, -drome: Denotes running; often used in terms related to motion or path.
duct/o: Means to lead; commonly found in references to systems or passages in the body.
dueoden/o: Refers to the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine; crucial for digestion.
dynam/o: Relates to power and strength; frequently used in terms discussing energy or force.
dynia: Also denotes pain; used in various medical contexts to describe types of pain.
dys-: A prefix that suggests something is bad, painful, or difficult; important in medical terminology.
ec-, ecto-: Implies something being outside or outwards; useful in anatomical descriptions.
echin/o: Refers to spiny or prickly characteristics; used in botanical or medical contexts.
echo-: Indicates a reverberating sound; utilized in terms related to acoustics or diagnostics.
eco-: Pertains to the environment; relevant in discussions on ecology and biology.
ectasis, -ectasia: Signifies dilation or expansion, particularly concerning organs or vessels.
ectomy: Indicates the surgical removal of a part or organ; commonly used in medical procedures.
ecrtr/o: Refers to congenital absence; used in medical explanations of conditions at birth.
edema: Describes swelling; frequently associated with excess fluid in body tissues.
ele/o: Pertains to oil; relevant in biology or pathology discussions regarding lubrication and substances.
electr/o: Relates to electricity; essential in discussions of electrical activity in the body.
embol/o: Refers to an embolus, which can block blood vessels; critical in understanding circulatory health.
embry/o: Relates to the embryo, the early development stage of organisms; key in developmental biology.
emesis: Denotes vomiting; often used in clinical settings to describe a symptom.
emia: Refers to a condition of the blood; important in hematology and diagnosing blood disorders.
emmetr/o: Indicates correct measurement or proportion; essential in discussions of vision and optics.
emphraxis: Refers to stoppage or obstruction; often used in medical descriptions of blockages.
en-, endo-: Means inside or within; commonly used in anatomical and biological terms.
enanti/o: Indicates opposition; used in contexts describing opposing forces or concepts.
encephal/o: Refers to the brain, a critical structure in the nervous system.
enter/o: Pertains specifically to the intestines, primarily the small intestine; vital for digestion and nutrient absorption.