Medical Terminology: Word Roots Lecture 2

A word root in a medical term contains the essential meaning of the word and often refers to a body part or system.

All medical root words come from the Latin language.

A word root can stand alone in a medical term without needing a suffix added to it.

The correct pronunciation of medical words is not important in the field of healthcare.

Constructed medical terms can include roots from languages such as Greek, Latin, Arabic, French, and English.

The term 'Hypertrophy' means a decrease in size.

The term 'pasteurize' refers to the process of cooling milk to a temperature that kills harmful microorganisms.

The word 'pasteurize' is derived from the name of Louis Pasteur.

To understand nonconstructed terms, it is not necessary to commit them to memory.

All acronyms and abbreviations are derived from names of people.

Medical Terms and Word Roots

Medical terms often contain a word root that encapsulates the core meaning, typically relating to a body part or system.
All medical root words originate from Latin, establishing a standard terminology in healthcare.
A word root can function independently without the need for an added suffix, allowing flexibility in medical terminology.

Pronunciation and Language Influence

Accurate pronunciation of medical words is not deemed essential in healthcare practice, emphasizing understanding over verbal precision.
Medical terminology can also incorporate root words from other languages, including Greek, Arabic, French, and English, expanding its linguistic diversity.

Specific Terms and Definitions

The term "Hypertrophy" denotes a decrease in size, revealing a common misconception as it typically refers to an increase in tissue or organ size.
"Pasteurize" is the process of heating milk to eliminate harmful microorganisms, critical for food safety, and is named after Louis Pasteur, a pioneer in microbiology.

Understanding Medical Terms

Non-constructed medical terms do not require memorization, suggesting a focus on comprehension rather than rote learning.
Acronyms and abbreviations within medical language often originate from the names of individuals, connecting terminology to historical and practical developments in the field.

Learn about the foundation of medical terms and how word roots contain the essential meaning of the word, often referring to body parts or systems. Explore the origins of medical root words from various languages such as Greek, Latin, Arabic, French, and German.