Understanding Veterinary Terminology Components

Word Parts and Their Functions

• A suffix modifies or alters a verb, adjective, or noun to create a new word, adding grammatical function or changing its meaning.
• The function of a suffix is to change the grammatical properties of a word, such as tense, number, or person.

Roots and Combining Forms

• A root is the part of a word that serves as the foundation or essential meaning, carrying the core significance of the word.
• A combining form is a word part that combines with other roots or affixes to create a new word, often carrying a specific meaning or function.

Prefixes and Their Meanings

• The prefix 'Anti-' means 'opposite, against, or opposed'.
• The prefix 'Trans-' indicates change, movement, or crossing from one side to another.
• The prefix 'Hypo-' signifies 'under, below, or less than'.
• The prefix 'Mega-' denotes 'large, great, or excessive'.
• The prefix 'Cost-' as a root word relates to the rib or ribs.

Other Prefixes and Their Meanings

• The prefix 'Olig-' signifies 'few, little, or scanty'.