Chapter 1 - Introduction to medical terminology

Primary Medical Terms Primary terms enable you to give priority to the most

important words in your study of medical terminology.

These terms are shown in black boldface.

Word Parts Are the Key An introduction to word parts and how they are used to

create complex medical terms.

Word Roots The word parts that usually, but not always, indicate the

part of the body involved.

Combining Form A word root that has a vowel, usually the letter “ o,” put

on the end before the addition of another word root or a

suffix.

Suffixes The word part attached at the end of a word that usually,

but not always, indicates the procedure, condition,

disorder, or disease.

Prefixes The word part attached at the beginning of a word that

usually, but not always, indicates location, time, number,

or status.

Determining Meanings

on the Basis of Word

Parts

Knowledge of word parts helps decipher medical terms.

Medical Dictionary Use Guidelines to make looking up a term easier.

Pronunciation Learn how to pronounce words correctly using the

“sounds-like” pronunciation system and audio files.

Spelling Is Always

Important

A single spelling error can change the entire meaning of a

term.

Singular and Plural

Endings

Unusual singular and plural endings used in medical

terms.

Basic Medical Terms Terms used to describe disease conditions.

Look-Alike, Sound-Alike Clarification of confusing terms and word parts that look

Chapter 1 - Introduction to medical terminology

Medical Terminology (ME1160)