Basic Word Structure

Question 1

Root

Answer 1

The foundation, or main part, of a word. It’s the part that prefixes and suffices are attached to.

Question 2

Prefix

Answer 2

A word beginning. A word that is attached to the beginning of a word.

Question 3

Suffix

Answer 3

A word ending. A word that is attached to the end of a root word.

Question 4

Combining vowels

Answer 4

A link between words. Most often used is “o”. It has no meaning of its own and serves a linking purpose only. As a general rule, a combining vowel is not used before a suffix that already begins with a vowel.

Ex: Electrocardiogram

Question 5

The Three Rules

Answer 5

Rule 1: Read the meaning of a medical term by starting at the end of the word, with the suffix.

Rule 2: The comibining vowel will drop before a suffix that already begins with a vowel.

Rule 3: Generally, the combining vowel “o” will be retained between two root words in a medical term. Even if the second root word begins with a vowl.

Question 6

Combining Forms

Answer 6

A root word with a combining vowel added to it.

Ex: Cardi/o, dermat/o, electr/o, gastr/o