Medical Terminology: Nervous System Roots

Study Notes

Nervous System Word Roots and Combining Forms

cerebr/o refers to the cerebrum, the largest part of the brain responsible for higher brain functions.
crani/o denotes the cranium, the skull that encases and protects the brain.
dendr/o translates as "tree," often used to describe the branched structure of nerve cells (neurons).
encephal/o signifies the brain, crucial for processing information and coordinating actions.
gangli/o means ganglion, a structure containing nerve cell bodies, often linked to the nervous system's network.
gli/o represents "glue" in relation to neurological tissue, specifically supportive cells in the nervous system known as glial cells.
kinesi/o refers to movement, pivotal in the study of motor function and physical activity.
lept/o means thin, used in medical terminology to describe thin structures or conditions.
lex/o indicates word or phrase, relevant in linguistics and the study of language-related neurological function.
mening/o or meningi/o pertains to the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
myel/o refers to bone marrow or spinal cord, the latter involved in transmitting signals between the brain and body.
narc/o relates to stupor or sleep, important in understanding various states of consciousness and conditions like narcolepsy.
neur/o signifies nerve, the fundamental component of the nervous system responsible for conducting signals.
radicul/o denotes nerve root, the segment of a nerve that connects to the spinal cord, integral for sensory and motor signal transmission.
sthen/o means strength, often used in the context of muscle strength and neurological function.
thec/o translates as sheath, typically referring to protective coverings around nerves or blood vessels.
thalam/o indicates thalamus, a part of the brain involved in relaying sensory information and regulating consciousness.
ton/o signifies tension, commonly associated with muscle tone and the regulation of muscle contraction.
ventricul/o refers to ventricle, which can denote cavities within the brain containing cerebrospinal fluid or spaces in the heart.

Description

Test your knowledge of essential medical terminology related to the nervous system. This quiz covers word roots and combining forms, helping you understand the language of healthcare professionals. Perfect for students in medical or health-related fields.