ARootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

ab-,a-,abs-awayLatinab"away"abnormal,abrasion, absent, abstain, abstract, aversion

ac-sharp or pointedLatinacereacupuncture

acerb-sharp, bitter, sourLatinacerbusacerbic, exacerbate

acid-sour or acidLatinacidusacidosis

acr-bitter, pungent, sharp, sourLatinacer,acrisacrid, acrimony

acu-sharpLatinacutus, past participle ofacuere"to sharpen", fromacus"needle"acupuncture, acute,acutifoliate

acr(o)-height, summit, tipGreek(kros) "high", "extreme"acrobatics,acromegaly,acronym,acrophobia,

ad-,a-,ac-,af-,ag-,al-,ap-,ar-,as-,at-movement to or toward; in addition toLatinad"to", "toward"accept,adapt,affect,approximate,ascend

adip-fatLatinadeps,adipis"fat"adipose

aer-,aero-air, atmosphereGreek(aer) "air"aeronautics, aerosol

aesthet-feeling, sensationGreekaisthtikos"of sense perception" from(aisthanesthai) "to perceive"aesthetics,anaesthetic

agri-,-egri-fieldLatinager,agris"field, country"agriculture, peregrine

agro-fieldGreek(agros) "field"agronomy

alb-dullwhiteLatinalbusalbedo,albino,albumen

am-,amat-,amor-love, lovedLatinamor"love" fromamre"to love"amateur, amorous

ambi-both, on both sidesLatinambi"on both sides"ambidexterity,ambivalent

amic-,-imic-friendLatinamicusamicable, inimical

amphi-around, about, both, on both sides of, both kindsGreek(amphi) "on both sides"amphibian,amphibolic

ampl-ample, abundant, bountifulLatinamplusamplification

an-,a-not, withoutGreekGreek-/-"not"anhydrous, atypical

ana-,an-again, against, back, upGreek (ana) "again", "against"anabaptist,anaphylaxis,anion,anode

andro-male, masculineGreekandrosandrogen,android

anemo-windGreekanemosanemometer

anima-breathLatinanima"breath"animal,animation

ann-,-enn-year, yearlyLatinannus"year"anniversary,annual,biannual,millennium

ant-,anti-against, opposed to, preventiveGreekanti"against"antagonist,antibiotic,antipodes

ante-,anti-before, in front of, prior toLatinante"before", "against"antebellum,antediluvian, anticipate,antiquarian

anth-flowerGreekanthos"flower"anther,anthology

anthrop-humanGreek(anthropos) "man"anthropology,anthropomorphic

apo-away from, separate, at the farthest pointGreek(apo) "from, away, un-, quite"apocrine,apogee,apostasy

aqu-waterLatinaquaaquamarine,aquarium,aqueduct,aquifer

ar-plow, tillLatinrrearable

ar-be dryLatinrre"be dry or parched"arid

arche-, archi-rulerGreek(arch) "rule" (in compounds: -, -)archangel,archetype

archaeo-,archeo-ancientGreekarkhaios"ancient" fromarkh"beginning"archaeologyor archeology, archaic

arct-Relating to the North Pole or the region near it; relating to cold; used as the scientific name of some bear species, e.g.Ursus arctos horribilisGreekarktos"bear"Arctic Ocean

argent-silverLatinargentumargent,Argentina

arist-excellenceGreek,aret,aristosaristocracy

arthr-jointGreek(arthron)arthritis,arthropod

astr-star, star-shapedGreek(astron) "star"asterisk,astrology,astronomy,disaster

athl-prizeGreek(athlos) "contest, feat"athlete,pentathlon

aud(i)-hearing, listening, soundLatinaudire"to hear"audible,auditorium, auditory

aug-,auct-grow, increaseLatinaugre,auctus"to increase"augend, augmentation

aur-relating to gold, or gold-coloredLatinaurum"gold"aureate,aureole

auri-relating to the earLatinauris"ear"auricle

aut-,auto-self; directed from withinGreek(autos) "self", "same"autograph,automobile, autonomy

avi-birdLatinavisaviary, aviation

axi-axisLatinaxisaxisymmetry

axio-meritGreek(axios) "worth"axiology

[edit]BRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

bac-rod-shapedLatinfrombaculum"rod"bacilla,bacteria

baro-weight,pressureGreek (baros)barograph,barometer, baroreceptor

basi-at the bottomGreekfrom ,I walk, march, "step"basic, basis

bathy-,batho-deep, depthGreek(baths,baths)batholith,bathyscaphe

be-,beat-blessLatinbeare,beatusbeatification

bell(i)-warLatinbellum,belliantebellum, bellicose,belligerent

ben-good, wellLatinbene(adverb)benefit,benignity

bi-twoLatinbis, "twice";bini, "in twos"binary,binoculars,bigamy,biscotti

bib-drinkLatinbibere,bibitusimbibe

bibl-bookGreek (biblon) "book"bible,bibliography

bi(o)-lifeGreek (bos) "life"biography,biology, biologist, biosphere, bioluminescent

blenn(o)-slimeGreek (blennos)blennophobia,blennosperma

blast-germ, embryo, bud, cell with nucleusGreek(blastain), "I put forth shoots"blastula,fibroblast,osteoblast, sideroblast

bon(i)-goodLatinbonusbonify, bonitary

bor-northGreek / Latin (boreas)Greek(borras) "the north wind"borealis

botan-plantGreek, (botan,botanon)botany

bov-cow,oxLatinbos,bovisbovine

brachi(o)-armGreek (brakhn)brachial artery,brachiosaurus

brachy-shortGreek(brakhs,brakhs)brachydactyly

brady-slowGreek(brads,brads)bradycardia

branchi-gillGreek (brgkhion,brnkhion)branchiopod,nudibranch

brev(i)-brief, short (time)Latinbrevis,breviareabbreviation, brevity

briz-nod, slumberGreek (briz)

brom-oatsGreek, (brmos,brme) "oats"Bromus ramosus

brom-stenchGreek (brmos) "stench, clangor"bromide

bronch-windpipeGreek (brgkhos, brnkhos)bronchitis, bronchus, bronchiole

bront-thunderGreek (bront)Brontosaurus

bucc-cheek,mouth, cavityLatinbuccabuccal,buccinator muscle

bulb-bulbousLatinbulbusbulbous, bulbule

bull-bubble,flaskLatinbulla, "bubble"ebullient,ebullism

burs-pouch,purseLatinbursabursa,bursar,bursary,disburse

[edit]CRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

cac(o)-badGreek(kakos)cacophony

cad-,-cid-,cas-fallLatincadere,casusaccident,cadence,case

caed-,-cid-,caes-,-cis-cutLatincaedere,caesuscaesura,incisor

calc-stoneLatin and Greekfrom Latincalx"lime", and from Greek (khalix) "pebble" "limestone"calcite,calcium,calculus

calli-beautifulGreekfrom Greek kallos"beauty"calligraphy

calor-heatLatincalor"heat"calorie

calyp-coverGreek (kaluptein)apocalypse

camer-vaultLatincamerabicameral,camera

camp-fieldLatincampus"field", "level ground"champion,campaign

can-dogLatincaniscanine,Canis Major

can-,-cin-,cant-singLatincanerecantata,canto, cantor

cand-glowing, iridescentLatincandere"to be white or glisten"candela, candid, candle, candor,incandescent, incendiary, incense

cap-,-cip-,capt-,-cept-hold, takeLatincapere,captus"take or hold" (vowel changes fromatoiin compounds)capture, captive, conception, recipient

capit-,-cipit-headLatincaput,capitis"head"capital,decapitation,precipitation

capr-goatLatincaper,capriCapricorn, caprine

caps-box, caseLatincapsacapsule

carbo-coalLatincarbo,carboniscarbon

carcer-jailLatincarcer,carcerareincarceration

carcin-cancer (disease)Latin from GreekLatin from Greek (karkinos) "crab"carcinogenic,carcinoma

cardi(o)-relating to the heartGreekkardia"heart"cardiograph,cardiology

cardin-hingeLatincardo,cardiniscardinal

carn-fleshLatincaro,carniscarnal, carnival,carnivore

carp-relating to fruitGreek (karpos) "fruit"carpology

carp-relating to the wristGreek (karpos) "wrist"carpal,carpal tunnel syndrome

cast-pureLatinfrom Latincastus"chaste"caste,castigate,castrate

cata-,cat-downGreekfrom Greek (kat) "down"catabolic,catalyst, catastrophe,catatonia,cathode,cation

caten-chainLatincatenacatenary,concatenation

cathar-pureGreek (katharos)catharsis

caud-tailLatincaudacaudal

caus-,-cus-cause or motiveLatincausacausative

cav-hollowLatincavus"hollow"cave, cavity, excavation

ced-,cess-goLatincedere,cessusprocession, recede, secede

celer-quickLatinceler,celerareacceleration, celerity

cen(o)-newGreek (kainos)Cenozoic

cen(o)-emptyGreek (kenos)cenotaph

cens-Latincensere"to estimate"census

cent-hundredLatincentumcent,centennial,centurion

centen-hundred eachLatincentenicentenary

centesim-hundredthLatincentesimuscentesimal, centesimation

centr-centerGreek (kntron) "needle", "spur"eccentric

cephal-headGreek (kephale)cephalic,cephalopod,encephalogram

ceram-clayGreek (keramos)ceramic

cerat-hornGreek, (keras,keratos) "horn"keratin

cern-siftLatincernerediscern, secern

cervic-relating to the neck, relating to thecervixLatincervix,cervicis"neck"cervix, cervical

ceter-otherLatinceteruset cetera

chir-of the hand or handsGreek (kheir) "hand"chiral,chiropractic,chiroptera

chelon-relating to aturtleGreek(khelne) "tortoise"chelonia

chlor-greenGreek(khlros) "green"chlorine,chlorophyll,chloroplast

chore-relating todanceGreekkhoreia"dancing in unison" fromkhoros"chorus"choreography

chord-cordLatin and Greekchorda"rope" from(chord)chordata

chrom-colorGreek(chrma) "color"chromium,chromosome, monochrome

chron-timeGreek(chronos)chronic,chronology,chronometer

chrys-goldGreek(khrusos) "gold"chrysolite

cili-eyelashLatinciliumcilia, supercilious

cine-motionGreek (kine)cinema

ciner-ashLatincinis,cinerisincineration

cing-,cinct-girdLatincingere,cinctussuccinct

circ-circleLatincircuscircus

circum-aroundLatincircumcircumcise,circumference, circumlocution, circumnavigate

cirr-orangeGreek(kirros)cirrhosis

cirr-curl,tentacleLatincirruscirrus

civ-citizenLatinciviscivility

clad-branchGreek(klados)clade

clar-clearLatinclarus,clarareclarity, declaration

clast-brokenGreek(klastos)iconoclast,osteoclast

claud-,-clud-,claus-,-clus-closeLatinclaudere,claususclause, exclusion, include

clav-keyGreekfrom Greek kleis"key" from , (kleiein) "to close"clavichord,clavicle,conclave

cl(e)ist-closedGreek (kleistos)

cleithr-bar, keyGreekcleithrum

clement-mildLatinclemens,clementisclemency, inclement

clin-bed, lean, reclineLatin-clinaredeclination, inclined

cochl-shellGreek (kochlos)cochlea

coel-hollowGreek (koilos)blastocoel, coelom, spongocoel

cogn-knowLatincognoscerecognitive, cognizant, recognize

col-strainLatincolare,columcolander

coll-hillLatincollis

coll-neckLatincollumcollar

color-colorLatincolorcoloration,coloratura, tricolor

con-,co-,col-,com-,cor-with, togetherLatincumcoagulate, collide, compress, connect, contain, corrode

con-coneGreek (knos)conic, conical,conoid

condi-seasonLatincondirecondiment

contra-againstLatincontracontradiction,contrast

copr-dungGreek (kopros)coprolite, coprophagia,coprophilia

corac-ravenGreek, (korax,korakos)coracoid

cord-heartLatincor,cordisaccord, cordial

corn-hornLatincornucornea,cornucopia,unicorn

coron-crownLatincorona,coronarecorona,coronation

corpor-bodyLatincorpus,corporiscorporation, corpse, corpuscle

cortic-barkLatincortex,corticiscorticosteriod

cosm-universeGreek (kosmos)cosmic,cosmonaut

cosmet-Greek- (kosmet-)cosmetics,cosmetology

cost-ribLatincostacostal

cotyl-cupGreek (kotul)cotyledon

-cracy, -cratgovernment, rule, authorityGreek (kratos)democracy

crani-skullGreek (kranion)cranium

crass-thickLatincrassuscrassitude

cre-makeLatincreare,creatuscreation,creature

cred-believe, trustLatincredere,credituscredentials, credibility, creditor, incredible

crep-boot,shoeGreek, (krpis,krpidos)

cribr-sieveLatincribrum,cribrarecribble, cribrate

ringGreek (krikos)

cris-,crit-judgeGreek (crisis)crisis,critic

crisp-curledLatincrispuscrispate

crist-crestLatincristacristate

cross-fringe,tasselGreek (krossos)

cruc-crossLatincrux,cruciscrucial,crucifix, crucify, excruciating

crur-leg, shankLatincrus,cruriscrural

crypt-hiddenGreek (kruptos)cryptic,cryptography

cten-combGreek, (kteis,ktenos)ctenophore

cub-cubeGreek (kubos)cubic,cuboid

cub-lieLatincubareincubation, succuba

culin-kitchenLatinculinaculinary

culp-blame, faultLatinculpaculpable, exculpate

cune-wedgeLatincuneuscuneiform

curr-,curs-runLatincurrere,cursusconcurrent, current, cursive,recursion

curv-bentLatincurvuscurvature

cuspid-lance, pointLatincuspis,cuspidisbicuspid

cut-skinLatincutiscuticle

cyan-blueGreek (kuanos)cyanide

cycl-circularGreek (kuklos)bicycle, cycle,cyclone

cylind-rollGreek (kulindros)cylinder

cyn-dogGreek, (kun,kunos)cynosure

cyst-capsuleGreek (kustis)cystic

cyt-cellGreek (kutos)cytoplasm, cnidocyte

[edit]DRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

dactyl-finger, toe, digitGreek(daktulos)dactylology,pterodactyl

damn-,-demn-to inflict loss uponLatindamnrecondemn,damnation

de-from, away from, removing, downLatinddeletion, dementia, descend

deb-oweLatindebere,debitusdebit

deca-,dec-,deka-,dek-tenGreekdeka, tendecagram,decahedron

decim-tenth partLatindecimus, tenth; fromdecem, tendecimal,decimate

delt-Greek(delta)deltoid

dem-,demo-peopleGreek(dmos)demagogue,democracy

den-ten eachLatindenidenarius, denary

dendr-,dendro-resembling a treeGreek(dendron): akin to, drys, "tree"dendrite,dendrochronology

dens-thickLatindensuscondense,density

dent-toothLatindens,dentisdental, dentifrice,dentures

derm-skinGreek(derma)dermis, epidermis, hypodermic

deuter-secondGreek(deuteros)Deuteronomy, deuterostome

dexter-rightLatindexterdexterity, dextrose

dexi-rightGreek, rightDexiarchia

di-twoGreek-dicot,diode,dipole

dia-apart, throughGreek(dia)dialysis,diameter, diagram

dict-say, speakLatindicere,dictuscontradict, dictate, dictation, dictionary, edict, predict

digit-fingerLatindigitusdigital

dino-terrible, fearfully greatGreek(deinos)dinosaur

dipl-double; twofoldGreek(diplos)diploid, diplosis

doc-,doct-teachLatindocere,doctusdocile, doctor, indoctrinate

dodec-twelveGreek(dodeka)dodecasyllabic

dogmat-,dox-opinion, tenetGreekdogmatic, orthodox

dom-houseLatindomusdome

dorm-sleepLatindormiredormant,dormitory

dors-backLatindorsumdorsal

du-twoLatinduodual

dub-doubtfulLatindubiusdubious

duc-,duct-leadLatindux,ducisabduction,conductor, introduction, production, reduction, deduction

dulc-sweetLatindulcisdulcet

dur-hardLatindurusdurable, duration, duress, endure, obdurate

dy-twoGreek(duo)dyad

dynam-powerGreek(dunam)dynamism,dynasty, dynamite

dys-badly, illGreek-dysentery, dysplasia, dystrophy

[edit]ERootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

ec-outGreek(ek)eccentric

eco-houseGreek(oikos)ecology,economics,ecumenism

ecto-outsideGreek(ektos)ectoderm

ed-,es-eatLatinedere,esusedible

ego-self, I (first person)Latin, Greekego,egocentric

ego-,eg-goatGreek(aix)egophony

em-,empt-buyLatinemere,emptusexemption, preempt,redeem

eme-vomitGreek (emetos)emetic

emul-striving to equal, rivalingLatinaemulus,aemulareemulator

en-,em-inGreek(en)emphasis

endo-insideGreek(endon)endocrine

engy-narrowGreek(engys)

ennea-nineGreek(ennea)ennead,enneagon

ens-swordLatinensis

eo-,eos-,eoso-dawn, eastGreek/Eocene

epi-,ep-uponGreek(epi)epicenter,epoch

epistem-knowledge or scienceGreek (epistm)epistemic

equ-,-iqu-even, levelLatinaequusequal, equivalence

equ-horseLatinequusEquestrian

erg-workGreek(ergon)ergonomics

err-strayLatinerrareaberration,errant

erythr(o)-redGreek (eruthros)erythrocyte

eso-withinGreek(es)esoteric

etho-,eth-,ethi-custom, habitGreek(thos)ethology

ethm-sieveGreek(hethmos); (hethein)ethmoid

ethn-people, race, tribe, nationGreek (ethnos)ethnic,ethnarch

etym-trueGreek (etumos)etymology

eu-well, goodGreek (eu)euphoria,euthanasia

eur-wideGreek(eurus)Europe

ex-,e-,ef-from, outLatinexexclude, extend,extrude

exo-outsideGreek(ekso)exoskeleton,exothermic

exter-,extra-outerLatinexternusexterior

extrem-outermost, utmostLatinextremusextremity,extremophile

[edit]FRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

f-,fat-say, speakLatinfari,fatusfate,infant,preface

fab-beanLatinfabafaba bean

fac-,-fic-,fact,-fect-makeLatinfacere,factusdefect,factory, manufacture

falc-sickleLatinfalx,falcisfalciform

fall-,-fell-,fals-deceiveLatinfallere,falsusfalsity,infallibility

fallac-falseLatinfallax,fallacisfallacy

famili-a close attendantLatinfamulusfamiliarity

fant-to showGreekfantasy

fasc-bundleLatinfascisfasciculation,fascism

fatu-foolish, uselessLatinfatuusfatuous,infatuation

feder-treaty, agreement, contract, league, pactLatinfoedus,foederisconfederation, federal

fel-catLatinfeles,felisFelinae,feline

felic-happy, merryLatinfelix,felicisfelicity

fell-suckLatinfellarefellation

femin-women, femaleLatinfeminafemininity

femor-thighLatinfemur,femorisfemoral

fend-,fens-strikeLatinfendere,-fensusdefend, offense

fenestr-windowLatinfenestradefenestration

fer-carryLatinferrereference, transfer

feroc-fierceLatinferox,ferocisferocity

ferr-ironLatinferrumferrous

fet-stinkLatinfeterefetid,fetor

fic-figLatinficusFicus

fid-,fis-faith, trustLatinfides,fidere,fisusconfidence,fidelity

fil-threadLatinfilumfilament

fili-sonLatinfiliusaffiliation

fin-endLatinfinisfinish, final

find-,fiss-splitLatinfindere,fissusfission, fissures

firm-fix, settleLatinfirmus,firmareconfirmation,firmament

fistul-hollow, tubeLatinfistula

fl-blowLatinflare,flatusflatulence, inflation,insufflation

flacc-flabbyLatinflaccus,flaccereflaccid

flav-yellowLatinflavusflavonoid

flect-,flex-bendLatinflectere,flexusflexible, flexile,flexor,inflection

flig-,flict-strikeLatinfligere,flictusconflict, inflict

flor-flowerLatinflos,florisfloral, florid

flu-,flux-flowLatinfluere,fluxuseffluent, fluency, influx

foc-hearthLatinfocusfocal

fod-,foss-digLatinfodere,fossusfossil

foen-hayLatinfenuculum

foli-leafLatinfoliumdefoliant

font-springLatinfons,fontisfont, fontal,fontanelle

for-bore,drillLatinforare,foratusforalite,foramen,foraminifer,perforation

form-shapeLatinformaconformity,deformity, formation, reformatory

fornic-vaultLatinfornix,fornicisfornication

fort-strongLatinfortisfortification

fove-shallow round depressionLatinfoveafovea

frang-,-fring-,fract-,frag-breakLatinfrangere,fractusfracture, fragment,frangible, infringe

frater-,fratr-brotherLatinfraterfraternity

fric-,frict-rubLatinfricare,frictusdentifrice,friction

frig-coldLatinfrigerefrigid, frigorific

front-foreheadLatinfrons,frontisconfront, frontage, frontal

fruct-,frug-fruitLatinfrux,fructisfructose

fug-,fugit-fleeLatinfugerecentrifuge,fugitive, refuge

fum-smokeLatinfumusfume,fumigation

fund-bottomLatinfundus,fundarefundamentalism, profundity

fund-,fus-pourLatinfundere,fususdiffusion,effusion, fusion, profuse, profusion, transfusion

fung-,funct-doLatinfungi,functusfunction,fungibility

fur-,furt-stealLatinfur,furarefurtive

furc-forkLatinfurcabifurcation

fusc-darkLatinfuscusobfuscation

[edit]GRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

galact-milkGreek, (gala,galaktos)galactic

gastr-stomachGreek(gaster)gastric,gastroenterology

ge-earthGreek(g), - (ge-)geography,geology,geometry

gel-icy coldLatingelumgelatin, gelid

gen(o)-race, kind,birthGreek(genos)eugenics,genocide

ger-,gest-bear, carryLatingerere,gestusdigest,gestation

germin-sproutLatingermen,germinisgermination

glabr-hairlessLatinglaberglabrous

glaci-iceLatinglaciesglacier

gladi-swordLatingladiusgladiator

glia-glueGreek(glia)glial

glob-sphereLatinglobusglobal, globule

glori-gloryLatingloriaglorify

glutin-glueLatingluten,glutinisagglutination

grad-,-gred-,gress-walk, step, goLatingradus,gradere,gressusgrade, regress

gram-writingGreek(gramma)grammar, grammatic

gran-grainLatingranumgranary,granite,granola, granule

grand-grandLatingrandisgrandiloquous,grandiosity

graph-draw, writeGreek(graph)grapheme, graphic,graphology

grat-thank, pleaseLatingratusgratitude, ingrate

grav-heavyLatingravisaggravation,grave,gravity

greg-flockLatingrex,gregisegregious, gregarious, segregation

gubern-govern, pilotLatingubernaregubernatorial

gust-tasteLatingustusdisgust, gusto

gutt-dropLatinguttagutta, guttifer, guttiform

guttur-throatLatingutturguttural

gymn-nudeGreek(gymnos)gymnasium,gymnastics,gymnosperm

gyn-womanGreekgynecology

[edit]HRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

hab-,-hib-,habit-,-hibit-haveLatinhabere,habitushabit, prohibition

haem(o)-,hem(o)-bloodGreek(haima)haemophilia,hemoglobin

hal(o)-saltGreek, (hals,halos)halogen

hal-,-hel-breatheLatinhalare,halatusanhelation, inhale

hapl(o)-simple, singleGreek(haplous)haploid, haplotype

haur-,haust-drawLatinhaurire,haustusexhaustion

heli(o)-sunGreek(hlios)heliocentric, heliotrope,helium

hemi-halfGreek(hmisus)hemicycle,hemisphere

hen-oneGreek(hen)henad,hyphen

hendec-elevenGreek(hendeka)hendecagon

hept-sevenGreek(hepta)heptagon,heptathlon,heptode

her-,hes-clingLatinhaerere,haesusadhesive, coherent

herb-grassLatinherbaherbal,herbicide

hered-heirLatinheres,heredisheredity

herp-creepGreek, (herp,herpein)herpes,herpetology

heter-different, otherGreek(heteros)heterodoxy

heur-findGreek(heurisk)heuristic

hex-sixGreek(hex)hexagon,hexahedron,hexode

hibern-wintryLatinhibernushibernation

hiem-winterLatinhiemshiemal

hipp(o)-horseGreek(hippos)hippodrome

hirsut-hairyLatinhirtus,hirsutushirsute

hispid-bristlyLatinhispidushispidity,hispidulous

histri-actorLatinhistrio,histrionishistrionic

hod(o)-wayGreek(hodos)cathode,herpolhode,hodometer

hol(o)-wholeGreek(holos)holistic

hom(o)-sameGreek(homos)homophone,homosexual

home(o)-likeGreek(homoios)homeostasis

homin-humanLatinhomo,hominishominid

homal-even, flatGreek(homalos)anomalous

honor-esteemLatinhonos,honorishonorable, honorarium

hor-boundaryGreek(horos)aphorism,horizon

hor(o)-hourGreek(hra)horoscope

horm-that which excitesGreek(horm)hormone

hort(i)-gardenLatinhortus,hortihorticulture

hospit-hostLatinhospes,hospitishospital, hospitality

host-enemyLatinhostishostile

hum-groundLatinhumus,humareexhumation, inhume

hyal-glassGreek(hualos)hyaline, hyaloid

hydr(o)-waterGreek(hudr)hydraulics,hydrology,hydrolysis,hydrophily, hydrophobia, hydroponic, hydrous

hygr-wetGreek(hugros)hygrometer

hyo-U-shapedGreek(huoeids)hyoid

hyp(o)-underGreek(hupo)hypothermia

hyper-above, overGreek(huper)hyperbole,hypertonic

hypn(o)-sleepGreek(hupnos)hypnosis

hyster-laterGreek(husteros)hysteresis

[edit]IRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

ichthy(o)-fishGreek(ichthus)ichthyology

icos-twentyGreek(eikosi)icosagon,icosahedron

id(o)-shapeGreek(eidos)idol

ide(o)-idea; thoughtGreek(idea)ideogram,ideology

idi(o)-personalGreek(idios)idiom,idiosyncrasy, idiot

ign-fireLatinignisigneous,ignition

in-(1),im-in, onLatininimport, incur, intend, invite

in-(2),il-,im-,ir-not, un- (negation)Latinin-illicit,impossible,inimical,irrational

infra-below, underLatininfrainfrastructure

insul-islandLatininsulainsular, insulation

inter-among, betweenLatininter(preposition)intercollegiate, intermission, intersection

intra-withinLatinintraintramural

irasc-,irat-be angryLatinirasciirascible, irate

is-, iso-equal, the sameGreek(isos)isometric,isomorphic,isotropic

iter-againLatiniterum,iterareiteration

itiner-route, wayLatiniter, itineris march, journeyitinerary

[edit]JRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

jac-lieLatinjacre"to be thrown"adjacent

jac-(originally IAC),-ject-cast, throwLatiniacio,iacere, ieci,iectus "to throw" (and cognates thereof)eject, interject, ejaculate,trajectory

janu-doorLatinjanuajanitor

joc-jokeLatinjocusjocularity

jug-yokeLatinjugare,jugumconjugal, subjugate

jung-,junct-joinLatinjungere,junctusconjunction, juncture

junior-youngerLatinjuniorjuniority

jus-, jur-, judic-(originally IVS)law, justiceLatinius, iuris;iudex,iudicisjudge, jury, justice

juv-,jut-helpLatinjuvare,jutusadjutant

juven-young, youthLatinjuvenisjuvenile, rejuvenate

juxta-beside, nearLatinjuxtajuxtaposition[disambiguation needed]

[edit]KRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

kil(o)-thousandGreek(chilioi)kilobyte, kilogram,kilometer

kine-movement, motionGreek (kineo)telekinesis, kinetic energy, kinesthetic

klept-stealGreek (klepts)kleptomania

kudo-gloryGreek (kudos)kudos

[edit]LRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

lab-,laps-slide, slipLatinlabi,lapsuselapse,relapse

labi-lipLatinlabia,labiaebilabial, labial

labor-toilLatinlaborcollaboration, elaboration

lacer-tearLatinlacerlaceration

lacrim-cry, tearsLatinlacrima"tear"lacrimal, lacrimous

lact-milkLatinlac,lactis,lactarelactate,lactation,lactose

lamin-layer, sliceLatinlaminalaminate, lamination

lamp-shineGreeklampas"torch"lamp

lapid-stoneLatinlapis,lapidislapidary

larg-largeLatinlargusenlargement

larv-ghost, maskLatinlarvalarva,larvae, larval

lat(i)-broad, wideLatinlatuslatitude

later-sideLatinlatus,laterisbilateral

laud-,laus-praiseLatinlauderelaud

lav-washLatinlavarelavatory

lax-not tenseLatinlaxus,laxarelaxative, relaxation

led-,les-hurtLatinlaedere,laesuslesion

leg-lawLatinlex,legis,legarelegal,legislative

leio-smoothGreekleiosleiomyoma

leni-gentleLatinlenis,lenireleniency

leon-lionLatinleo,leonis"lion"Leo, leonine, Leopold

lep-flake, scaleGreeklepisLepidoptera

leps-grasp, seizeGreeklepsisepilepsy

leuc(o)-,leuk(o)-whiteGreekleukosleucocyte

lev-lift, lightLatinlevis"light" (in weight),levareelevator,levitation

liber-freeLatinliber,liberareliberation,liberty

libr-bookLatinliber,librilibrarian,library

lig-bindLatinligare,ligatusligament,ligature

lim-slugLatinlimax,limacislimacon,limacoid

lin-lineLatinlinealinearity, line

lingu-language, tongueLatinlinguabilingual, linguistic

linqu-,lict-leaveLatinlinquere,lictusrelict, relinquish

lip(o)-fatGreekliposlipolysis

liter-letterLatinlitteraalliteration, illiterate,literacy, literal, obliterate

lith(o)-stoneGreeklithoslithosphere,megalith,monolith,NeolithicEra

loc-placeLatinlocuslocal,location

log-thought, word, speechGreeklogos"word"logic, monologue, morphological

long-longLatinlonguselongate,longitude

loqu-,locut-speakLatinloquiallocution,eloquence

luc-bright, lightLatinlux,lucislightLucifer(bearer of light)

lud-,lus-playLatinludere,lususallude,illusion

lumin-lightLatinlumen,luminisillumination, luminous

lun-moonLatinlunalunar, lunatic

lysisdissolvingGreek,lysisanalysis,cytolysis,hydrolysis

[edit]MRootMeaning In EnglishOrigin LanguageEtymology (Root Origin)English Examples

macro-longGreek(makros)macron

magn-great, largeLatinmagnusmagnanimous, magnificent, magnitude

maj-greaterLatinmajor,majusmajesty,majority,majuscule

mal-bad, wretched,Latinmalusmalfeasance, malicious,malignancy, malodorous

mamm-breastLatinmammamammal,mammary gland

man-flowLatinmnre,manatusemanate,emanationism,immanant, immanation

man-stayLatinmanre,mansusimmanence, immanent, manse, permanence,permanent,remanence, remanent

mand-handLatinmandre,mandatusmandate, remand

maniamental illnessGreek(man)kleptomania,maniac

manu-handLatinmanusmanual,manuscript

mar-seaLatinmare,marismarine, maritime

mater-,matr-motherLatinmater,matrismaternity,matriarch,matrix

maxim-greatestLatinmaximusmaximum

medi-,-midi-middleLatinmedius,mediaremedian,medieval

meg-great, largeGreek(megas)megaphone

mei-lessGreek(mein)meiosis

melan-black, darkGreek(melas)Melanesia,melanoma

melior-betterLatinmelioramelioration

mell-honeyLatinmel,mellismellifluous

memor-rememberLatinmemormemorial

mening-membraneGreek(meninx)meningitis

men(o)-monthGreek(men)menopause

menstru-monthlyLatinmenstruusmenstruation, menstrual

ment-mindLatinmens,mentisdemented, mentality

mer-partGreek(meros)polymer

merc-reward, wages, hireLatinmerx,mercismercantile, merchant

merg-,mers-dip, plungeLatinmergereemerge, immersion

mes-middleGreek(mesos)mesolithic,mesozoic

meter-,metr-measureGreek(metron)metric,thermometer

meta-above, among, beyondGreek(meta)metaphor, metaphysics

mic-grainLatinmicamicelle

micr(o)-smallGreek(mikros)microphone,microscope

migr-wanderLatinmigrareemigrant,migrate

milit-soldierLatinmiles,militismilitary,militia

mill-thousandLatinmillemillennium,million

millen-thousand eachLatinmillenimillenary

mim-repeatGreek(mimos)mime, mimic

min-jutLatinminereprominent

min-less, smallerLatinminor,minusminority, minuscule

mir-wonder, amazementLatinmiror,mirari, miratus sumadmire,miracle, mirror

mis-hateGreek(misos)misandry,misogyny

misce-,mixt-mixLatinmiscere,mixtusmiscellaneous, mixture

mit-threadGreek(mitos)mitochondrion

mitt-,miss-sendLatinmittere,missusintermittent,missionary, transmission

mne-memoryGreek(mnm)mnemonic

mol-grindLatinmola,molere,molitusmolar

moll-softLatinmollisemollient, mollify

mon(o)-oneGreek(monos)monism,monolith, monotone

monil-string of beadsLatinmonileMoniliformida

mont-mountainLatinmons,montisMontana

morph-form, shapeGreek(morph)anthropomorphism,morpheme, morphology

mort-deathLatinmors,mortisimmortal, mortality, mortuary

mov-,mot-move, motionLatinmovere,motusmobile, momentum, motor, move

mulg-,muls-milkLatinmulgereemulsion

mult-many, muchLatinmultusmultiple, multiplex, multitude

mur-wallLatinmurus,muriimmured,mural

mus-thiefLatinmus,murismouse

musc-flyLatinmusca,muscaeMuscicapidae,Muscidae

mut-changeLatinmutaremutation

my-mouseGreek(mus)musophobia

myri-countless, ten thousandGreek(murios)myriad,myriapod

myth-storyGreek(muthos)mythic,mythology

myx-slimeGreek(muxa)Myxini

myz-suckGreek(muza)Myzopoda

[edit]NRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

nar-nostrilLatinnaris

narc-numbGreek(nark)narcosis, narcotic

narr-tellLatinnarrarenarrative

nas-noseLatinnasusnasal

nasc-,nat-bornLatinnascere,natusnascent, native

naut-shipGreek (nautes)astronaut,Argonaut

nav-shipLatinnavisnaval

ne(o)-newGreek(neos)neologism

necr(o)-deadGreek(nekros)necrophobia

nect(o)-swimmingGreek (nektos)nectopod

nect-,nex-join, tieLatinnectere,nexusconnection

neg-say noLatinnegarenegative

nema-hairGreek(nma)nematode

nemor-grove, woodsLatinnemus,nemorisnemoral

nephr-kidneyGreek(nephros)nephritis

nes-islandGreek (nsos)Polynesia

neur-nerveGreek (neurn)neurology, neurosurgeon

nict-winkLatinnictarinictation

nigr-blackLatinnigerdenigrate

nihil-nothingLatinnihilumannihilation

noct-nightLatinnox,noctisnocturnal, noctambulist

nod-knotLatinnodusnode, nodule

nom-arrangement, lawGreek (nomos)autonomous, taxonomy

nomad-those who let pasture herdsGreek, (nomas,nomados)nomadic

nomin-nameLatinnomen,nominisnomination

non-notLatinnonnone

non-ninthLatinnonusnonary

nonagen-ninety eachLatinnonageninonagenary

nonagesim-ninetiethLatinnonagesimusnonagesimal

not-letter, note, paperLatinnotareannotation, notable

noth-spuriousGreek (nothos)nothogenus

noto-back, southGreek (notos)notochord

nov-nineLatinnovemNovember, novennial

nov-newLatinnovusinnovation,nova

noven-nine eachLatinnoveninovenary

novendec-nineteenLatinnovendecim

nox-, noc-harmfulLatinnoxanoxious

nu-nodLatinnuereinnuendo

nub-to marry, to wedLatinnubes,nubis,nubereconnubial, nubile

nuc-nutLatinnux,nucisnucleus

nuch-back of neckLatinnuchanuchal cord

nud-nakedLatinnudusdenude, nudity

null(i)-noneLatinnullusnullify

numer-numberLatinnumerusnumeral

nunci-announceLatinnuntiuspronunciation

nupti-Latinnuptial

nutri-nourishLatinnutrirenutrient

[edit]ORootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

ob-,o-,oc-,of-,og-,op-,os-againstLatinobobstinate, obstreperous, occur, offend, omit, oppose, ostentatious

oct-eightGreek(okt)octagon,octahedron,octode

oct-eightLatinoctoctangular, octennial, octovir

octav-eighthLatinoctvusoctaval

octogen-eighty eachLatinoctogenioctogenary

octogesim-eightiethLatinoctogesimusoctogesimal

octon-eight eachLatinoctonioctonary

ocul-eyeLatinoculus,oculareocular,oculus,ullage

od-path, wayGreek(hodos)anode,diode,odometer,pentode,tetrode,triode

od-hateLatinodiumodious

odont-toothGreek, (odous,odontos)odontology

odor-fragrantLatinodorodorous

oeco-houseGreek(oikos)ecology

oed-swollenGreek (oidma)oedema

oen-wineGreek(oinos)oenology

oesoph-gulletGreek(oisophagos)oesophagus

ogdo-eighthGreek(ogdoos)ogdoad

-oidlikeGreek- (-oeids)asteroid, mucoid, organoid

ole-oilLatinoleumoleosity

olecran-skull of elbowLatin from Greek (lekranon)olecranon

olig-fewGreek (oligos)oligarchy

oliv-oliveLatinolivaolivaceous, olivary, olivette

-omacancerGreek-melanoma

omas-paunchLatinomasumomasum

oment-fat skinLatinomentumomental

omin-creepyLatinomen,ominisabominable, ominous

omm-eyeGreek (omma)ommatidium

omni-allLatinomnisomnipotence,omnivore

omo-shoulderLatin

omphal-navelGreek (omphalos)omphalectomy

oner-burdenLatinonus,onerisexonerate, onerous

onom-nameGreek (onoma)onomatopoeia

ont-existingGreek (ontos)ontogeny,ontology

-onymnameGreek(onuma)antonym,pseudonym,synonym

oo-eggGreek(oion)oocyte

opac-shadyLatinopacusopacity

oper-workLatinopus,operisinoperable,opera

opercul-little coverLatinoperculum

ophi-snakeGreek (ophis)ophiophagy

ophthalm-eyeGreek (ophthalmos)ophthalmology

opisth-behindGreek (opisthen)opisthosoma,opsimath

opoter-eitherGreek (hopoteros)

opt-eyeGreek (optos)optical

opt-chooseLatinoptareadopt, optional

optim-bestLatinoptimusoptimum

or-mouthLatinos,orisoral,orator

orb-circleLatinorbisorbit

orch-testicleGreek(orchis)orchid

ordin-orderLatinrd,ordinisordinal, ordinary

organ-organ, instrument, toolGreek (organon)organism

ori-,ort-easternLatinoriri,ortusorient

orn-decorateLatinrnreadorn, ornament, ornate

ornith(o)-birdGreek(ornis,ornithos)ornithology

orth(o)-straightGreek(orthos)orthodontist,orthodoxy,orthosis

oscill-swingLatinoscillumoscillation

oss(i)-boneLatinos,ossisossification

osteo-boneGreek(ostoun)osteoporosis

osti-entranceLatinostiumostiole

ostrac-shellGreek (ostrakon)ostracism

ot-earGreek, (ous,tos)otology

ov-eggLatinovumoval, ovary, ovule

ovi-sheepLatinovisovine

oxy-sharp, pointedGreek(oxus)oxygen,oxymoron

[edit]PRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

pac-peaceLatinpax,pacispacifism

pach-thickGreek(pachus)pachydermata,Pachypodium

paed-childGreek, (pais,paidos)paediatric

pagin-pageLatinpaginapagination

pal-stakeLatinpalusimpalement, pale

palae-,pale-ancient, oldGreek(palaios)paleontology

palin-backGreek(palin)palindrome

pall-be paleLatinpallerepallid,pallor

palli-mantleLatinpalliumpallium

palm-palmLatinpalmapalmate

palustr-in marshesLatinpalusterpalustral

pan-,pam-allGreek, (pas,pantos)pandemic

pand-,pans-spreadLatinpandere,pansusexpand, expansion

par(a)-beside, nearGreek(para)parallel,parameter

pariet-wallLatinparies,parietisparietal

part-partLatinpars,partisbipartite,partition

parthen-maidenGreek(parthenos)parthenogenesis

parv-littleLatinparvusparvovirus

pasc-,past-feedLatinpascere,pastuspasture, repast

pass-pace, stepLatinpassus

passer-sparrowLatinpasserpasseriform,passerine

pat-be openLatinpaterepatent

path-feel, hurtGreek(pathos)pathetic,pathology

pati-,pass-suffer, feel, endure, permitLatinpati,passuspassive,patience

patr-fatherGreek,(patr,patria)patriarch

patr-fatherLatinpater,patrispatrilocal

pauc-fewLatinpaucuspaucal, pauciloquent, paucity

pav-Latinpavirepavement

pecc-sinLatinpeccareimpeccable

pect-fixedGreek(pktos)pectic,pectin

pector-chestLatinpectus,pectorispectoral

pecun-moneyLatinpecuniapecuniary

ped-childGreek, (pais,paidos)pedagogy

ped-footLatinpes,pedispedal, quadruped

pejor-worseLatinpejorpejorative

pell-,puls-driveLatinpellere,pulsuspropellent,propulsor, repellent

pen-almostLatinpaenepeninsula, penultimate,penumbra

pend-,pens-hangLatinpenderesuspend

penn-,pinn-featherLatinpennapennate,pinnate

pent-fiveGreek(pente)pentagon,pentode,pentagrid

pentecost-fiftiethGreek(pentkostos)pentecostalism

pept-to digestGreek, (pessein,peptos)peptic,peptide

per-thoroughly, throughLatinperperfection, permeate, persistence, pervade

peran-across, beyondGreek(peran)

peri-aroundGreek(peri)perimeter, peripheral,periscope

persic-peachGreek(persikos)

pessim-worstLatinpessimuspessimal

pet-strive towardsLatinpetereappetite, competition

petr-rockGreek(petra)petroglyph

phae-darkGreek(phaios)phaeomelanin

phag-eatGreek(phagein)sarcophagus

phalang-close formation of troops, finger bonesGreek, (phalanx,phalangos)phalanges

phalar-having a patch of whiteGreek(phalros)[1]phalarope

pharmac-drug, medicineGreek(pharmakon)pharmacy

phaner-visibleGreek(phaneros)phanerozoic

pher-bear, carryGreek(pher)pheromone

phil-, -philelove, friendshipGreek(phile, philia)hydrophile,philosophy

phleg-heatGreek(phleg)phlegm,phlegmatics

phloe-tree barkGreek(phloios)phlobaphene,phloem

phob-fearGreek(phobos)hydrophobia

phon-soundGreek(phn)homophone, microphone,phonograph

phor-carry, bearGreek(phoros)metaphor

phos-,phot-lightGreek, (phs,phtos)phosphor,photograph

phragm-fenceGreek(phragma)diaphragm

phren-diaphragm, mindGreek, (phrn,phrenos)phrenetic,schizophrenia

phryn-toad, toad-likeGreek(phrun)Phrynobatrachus

phyl-tribeGreek(phulon)phylogenetics,phylum

phyll-leafGreek(phullon)chlorophyll,phyllotaxis

phys-natureGreek(phusis)physics

physa-bladderGreek, (phusa,phouska)physalis

phyt-plantGreek(phuton)neophyte,phytoplankton

pic-pitchLatinpix,picis

pil-hairLatinpilusdepilatory,epilator

pin-drinkGreek(pinein)pinocytosis

pin-pineLatinpinuspineal gland

ping-,pict-paintLatinpingere,pictusdepiction, picture

pingu-fatLatinpinguisPinguicula

pir-pearLatinpiruspiriformis muscle

pisc-fishLatinpiscisPisces,piscivore

pis-peaGreek(pisos)

plac-plate, tabletGreek, (plax, plakos)

plac-calmLatinplacare,placatusplacate

plac-,-plic-pleaseLatinplacre,placitusplacebo, placid

plagi-obliqueGreek(plagios)plagioclase

plan-flatLatinplanusexplanation, planar,plane

plang-,planct-Latinplangere,planctusplangent

plas-mouldGreek(plath)plasma,plastic

platy-flat, broadGreek(platus)platypus

plaud-,-plod-,plaus-,-plos-approve, clapLatinplaudere,plaususapplaud,applause, explosion, implode, plaudits, plausible

ple-,plet-fillLatinplerecomplement,suppletion

pleb-peopleLatinplebs,plebisplebian,plebs

plec-interwovenGreek(plek)plectics,symplectomorphism

plect-,plex-plaitLatinplectere,plexusperplex

plen-fullLatinplenusplenary

plesi-nearGreek(plsios)

pleth-fullGreek(plthos)plethora

pleur-sideGreek(pleura)

plic-foldLatinplicare,plicatusduplication, replicate

plinth-brickGreek(plinthos)

plor-Latinplorareimplore

plu-rainLatinpluere

plum-featherLatinplumaplumage, plumate

plumb-leadLatinplumbumplumber

plur-moreLatinplurisplural

plurim-mostLatinplurimus

plus-moreLatinplussurplus

plut-wealthGreek(ploutos)plutocracy

pluvi-rainLatinpluviapluvial

pneu-air, lungGreek(pneuma)pneumatic

pod-footGreek,(pous,podos)podiatry,tripod

pogon-beardGreek, (pgn,pgnos)pogonotrophy

poie-makeGreek(poie)poiesis

pol-poleGreek(polos)dipole, polar

pole-,poli-cityGreek(polis)metropolis, politics

polem-warGreek(polemos)polemic

poli-greyGreek(polios)

pollic-thumbLatinpollex,pollicis

pollin-Latinpollen,pollinispollination

poly-manyGreek(polus)polygon

pon-,posit-putLatinponere,posituscomponent, position, postpone

ponder-weightLatinpondus,ponderispreponderance

pont-bridgeLatinpons,pontispontoon

popul-peopleLatinpopulus,popularepopulation

por-passageGreek(poros)pore

porc-pigLatinporcusporcine,pork

porphyr-purpleGreek(porphura)porphyrin

port-gateLatinportaportal

port-carryLatinportare,portatusexport,transportation

post-after, behindLatinpostposterior, postscript

pot-drinkLatinpotus,potarepotable

potam-riverGreek(potamos)hippopotamus,Mesopotamia

prasin-leek-greenGreek(prasinos)prasinous

prat-meadowLatinpratum

prav-crookedLatinpravusdepravity

pre-beforeLatinpraeprevious

prec-prayLatinprex,precis,precrideprecation

pred-Latinpraeda,praedaripredator

prehend-,prend-,prehens-graspLatinprehendere,prehensuscomprehend

prem-,-prim-,press-pressLatinpremere,pressuspressure

presby-oldGreek(presbus)Presbyterianism

preter-pastLatinpraeterpreterite, pretermission

preti-priceLatinpretium,pretiare

prim-firstLatinprimusprimary, primeval, primitive

prior-formerLatinpriorpriority

priv(i)-separateLatinprivus,privare,privatusdeprivation, privilege

pro-before, in front ofGreek(pro)

pro-for, forwardLatinpropropulsion

prob-tryLatinprobus,probareprobation

proct-anusGreek(prktos)proctology

propri-one's own, ownershipLatinproprietasappropriate, property, propriety

pros-forwardGreek(pros)

prot-firstGreek(prtos)protoplasm

proxim-nearestLatinproximus,proximareapproximate, proximity

prun-plumLatinprunusprune

psamma-sandGreek(psammos)

pseud-falseGreek(pseuds)pseudonym

psil-bareGreek(psilos)epsilon

psych-mindGreek(psuch)psycho

psychr-coldGreek(psuchros)

pter-wing, fernGreek(pteron)helicopter

pto-fallGreek(ptss)ptosis

ptyal-salivaGreek(ptuon)

ptych-fold, layerGreek,(ptuch)triptych

pub-sexually matureLatinpubespubescent, pubic

public-Latinpublicuspublication

pude-Latinpudereimpudent

pugn-fightLatinpugna,pugnarepugnacious, repugnant

pulchr-beautifulLatinpulcher,pulchripulchritude

pulmon-lungLatinpulmo,pulmonispulmonary

pulver-dustLatinpulvis,pulverispulverize

pung-,punct-prickLatinpungere,punctuspuncture, pungent

puni-punishLatinpunire,punituspenal, punish, punitive

pup-dollLatinpupapupa, puppet

pur-pureLatinpurusimpurity, purify

purg-cleanseLatinpurgareexpurgate,purgatory, purge

purpur-purpleLatinpurpura

put-prune, reckonLatinputrecompute, putative

pyg-rumpGreek(pug)pygostyle, callipygian

pyl-gateGreek, (puln)pylon

pyr-heat, fireGreek,(pur,puros)pyrolysis

[edit]QRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

quadr-fourLatinquattuorquadrangle, quadrillion

quadragen-forty eachLatinquadrageniquadragenary

quadragesim-fortiethLatinquadragesimusquadragesimal

quart-fourthLatinquartusquartary,quartile

quasi-as ifLatinquasiquasar

quatern-four eachLatinquaterniquaternary,quaternion

quati-,quass-shakeLatinquatere

quer-,-quir-,quesit-,-quisit-search, seekLatinquaerereInquisition, query

qui-restLatinquiesquiet, requiem

quin-five eachLatinquiniquinary

quindecim-fifteenthLatinquindecimusquindecimal

quinden-fifteen eachLatinquindeniquindenary

quinque-fiveLatinquinquequinquennium

quint-fifthLatinquintusquintary,quintile

quot-how many, how greatLatinquota,quotient

[edit]RRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

rad-,ras-scrape, shaveLatinradere,rasusabrade, abrasion, erasure

radi-beam, spokeLatinradius,radiareradiance,radiation

radic-rootLatinrdix,rdciseradicate, radical

ram-branchLatinrmusramification, ramose

ran-frogLatinranaRana

ranc-rancidness, grudge, bitternessLatinrancererancid, rancor

rap-turnipLatinrapumrapeseed

raph-seamGreek (rhaph)

rar-Latinrarusrarity

rauc-harsh, hoarseLatinraucusraucous

re-,red-again, backLatinre-recede, redact

reg-,-rig-,rect-straightLatinregere,rectusdirigible, erect, erection, rectum

rem-oarLatinremusbireme,trireme

ren-kidneyLatinrenesrenal

rep-,rept-crawl, creepLatinrepere,reptusreptile

ret-netLatinretereticle,retina

retro-backward, behindLatinretroretrograde,retrospective,retrovirus

rhabd-rodGreek(rhabdos)rhabdoid,rhabdom

rhach-,rach-spineGreek, (rhachis)rhachiodont

rhag-tear, rentGreekrhagades

rhe-flowGreek (rhein)rheostat

rhig-chillGreek (rhigos)rhigosaurus

rhin-nose, snoutGreek, (rhis, rhinos)rhinoplasty

rhiz-rootGreek (rhiza)rhizome

rhod(o)-roseGreek (rhodon)rhododendron

rhomb-spinning topGreek (rhombos)rhombus

rhynch-snoutGreekRhynchobatus

rid-,ris-laughLatinridere,risusderision, ridicule

robor-oak, strengthLatinrobur,roboriscorroboration

rod-,ros-gnawLatinrodere,rosuscorrode,erosion,rodent

rog-askLatinrogarederogatory,interrogation

rostr-beak, prowLatinrostrumrostral, rostriform, rostrum

rot-wheelLatinrota,rotarerotation

ruber-,rubr-redLatinruberrubric, ruby

rug-wrinkleLatinruga,rugarecorrugation

rumin-throatLatinrumen,ruminisrumination

rump-,rupt-breakLatinrumpere,ruptuseruption, rupture, interrupt

rur-countryLatinrus,rurisrural

[edit]SRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

sacchar-sugarGreek(sakcharon)saccharin

sacr-,secr-sacredLatinsacer,sacrareconsecrate,sacrament

sagac-wiseLatinsagax,sagacissagacity

sagitt-arrowLatinsagittasagittal plane,Sagittaria

sal-saltLatinsal,salis,saleresalinity

sali-,-sili-,salt-jumpLatinsalire,saltusresilient, salient, saltus

salic-willowLatinsalix,salicissalicin

salv-saveLatinsalvus,salvaresalvation

san-healthyLatinsanusinsane,sanity

sanc-holyLatinsancire,sanctussanctify,sanctuary

sanguin-bloodLatinsanguis,sanguinisconsanguinity, sanguine

sapi-,-sipi-taste, wiseLatinsapereinsipience, sapient

sapon-soapLatinsapo,saponissaponification

sarc(o)-fleshGreek, (sarx,sarkos)sarcophagus

saur-lizard, reptileGreek(sauros)dinosaur

sax-rockLatinsaxum

scab-scratchLatinscaberescabies

scal-ladder, stairsLatinscalascalar, scale

scalen-unevenGreek(skalnos)scalene muscles, scalene triangle

scand-,-scend-,scans-,-scens-climbLatinscandereascend, transcendent, descend

scaph-anything hollow, bowl, shipGreek,scaphoid bone

scel-leg, thighGreek, (skelos)isosceles

schem-planGreek(schma)schematic

schis-splitGreek,(schisma)schism

sci-knowLatinscireprescient,science

scind-,sciss-splitLatinscindererescind,scissors

scler-hardGreek(sklros)scleroderma, sclerosis

scoli-crookedGreek(skolios)scoliosis

scop-, scept-look at, examine, view, observeGreek,(skopos)horoscope,kaleidoscope,stethoscope

scrib-,script-writeLatinscribere,scriptusinscribe,scripture

sculp-carveLatinsculpere,sculptussculpture

scut-shieldLatinscutumscute

scyph-cupGreek (chouphta)Scyphozoa

se-,sed-apartLatinsesecede,sedition

seb-tallowLatinsebumsebaceous,sebum

sec-,sect-,seg-cutLatinsecaresecant, section, segment

sed-settle, calmLatinsedare,sedatussedative

sed-,-sid-,sess-sitLatinsedere,sessusreside,sediment, session, supersede

sedec-sixteenLatinsedecimsedecimal

seget-in cornfieldsLatinsegetum

sei-shakeGreek,(seismos)seismograph

selen-moonGreek(seln)Selene,selenium

sell-saddle, seatLatinsellasella turcica

sema-signGreek(sma)semantics,semaphore

semi-halfLatinsemissemifinal

semin-seedLatinsemen,seminisinsemination

sen-old manLatinsenex,senissenator, senility

sen-six eachLatinsenisenary

senti-,sens-feelLatinsentire,sensusconsensus, sentient

sept-fence, partition, enclosureLatinsaeptumtransept

sept-sevenLatinseptemseptennial

septen-seven eachLatinsepteniseptenary

septim-seventhLatinseptimusseptimal, septime

septuagen-seventy eachLatinseptuageniseptuagenary

septuagesim-seventiethLatinseptuagesimusseptuagesima, septuagesimal

septuagint-seventyLatinseptuagintaSeptuagint

sequ-,secut-followLatinsequere,secutusconsecutive,sequence

ser-,sat-cultivateLatinserere,satussative

ser-body fluidLatinserumserous

ser-lateLatinserusserein, serotine

serp-crawl, creepLatinserpere,serptusserpent

serr-saw, saw-toothedLatinserra,serrareserration

serv-save, protect, serveLatinservareconservation

sesqui-one and a halfLatinsesquisesquicentennial

set-bristle, hairLatinsaetaseta, setose

sever-stern, strict, seriousLatinseverusseverity

sex-,se-sixLatinsexsemester, sexangle, sexennium

sexagen-sixty eachLatinsexagenisexagenary

sexagesim-sixtiethLatinsexagesimussexagesimal

sext-sixthLatinsextussextant

sibil-hissLatinsibilus,sibilaresibilance

sicc-dryLatinsiccusdesiccation

sider-starLatinsidus,siderissidereal

sign-signLatinsignumdesign, designate, signal

sil-quiet or stillLatinsileresilence

silv(i)-forestLatinsilvasilviculture

simi-ape, monkeyLatinsimiasimian

simil-likeness, trust, groupLatinsimilisassimilate, similarity

simul-imitating, feigningLatinsimularesimulation

singul-one eachLatinsingulussingular

sinistr-leftLatinsinister,sinistrisinistral

sinu-(to draw) a lineLatinsinuareinsinuate

sinus-hollow, bayLatinsinus

siph(o)-tubeGreek(siphn)siphon

sist-cause to standLatinsistereconsist, persistence

sit(o)-food, grain, wheatGreek(sitos)sitology

soci-groupLatinsocius,sociareassociate, social

sol-sunLatinsol,solissolar

sol-comfort, sootheLatinsolariconsolation, solace

sol-alone, onlyLatinsolusdesolate, sole, solo, solipsism

solen-pipe, channelGreek(sln)solenoid

solv-,solut-loosen, set freeLatinsolvere,solutusdissolve, solution

soma-bodyGreek, (sma,smatos)somatic

somn-sleepLatinsomnusinsomnia

somni-dreamLatinsomnium

son-soundLatinsonusresonance

soph-wiseGreek(sophos)sophist

sorb-,sorpt-suckLatinsorbereabsorb, absorption

sord-dirtLatinsordes,sorderesordid

soror-sisterLatinsororsorority

spati-spaceLatinspatiumspatial

spec-,-spic-,spect-lookLatinspecereconspicuous, inspection, specimen

spect-watch, look atLatinspectarespectator

specul-observeLatinspecularispeculation

sper-hopeLatinspes,speraredesperation, esperance

sperm-seedGreek(sperma)angiosperm

sphen(o)-wedgeGreek (sphn)

spher-ballGreek(sphaira)sphere, spheroid

sphinct-closingGreeksphincter

spic-spikeLatinspicaspicule

spin-thornLatinspinaspine

spir-breatheLatinspirarerespiration

spond-,spons-a surety, guarantee; give assurance, promise solemnlyLatinspondere,sponsus

spondyl-vertebra

spu-,sput-spew, spitLatinspueresputum

squal-scaly, dirty, filthyLatinsqualeresqualid, squalor

squam-scaleLatinsquama

squarros-spreading at tipsLatin

st-standLatinstare,statusstable, station, statistic, statue, status

stagn-pool of standing waterLatinstagnarestagnant

stalact-Greek (stalaktits)stalactite

stalagm-Greek (stalagmos)stalagmite

stann-tinLatinstannumstannous

statu-,-stitu-standLatinstatuereinstitution, statute

stea-fat, tallowGreek, (stear,steatos)stearic acid

steg-coveringGreeksteganography

stell-starLatinstellaconstellation, stellar

sten-narrowGreek (stenos)stenography

stere-solidGreek (stereos)

stern-,strat-spread, strewLatinsternere,stratusstratify

stern-breastboneGreek (sternon)sternum

stich-line, rowGreek (stichos)

stig-Greek (stigma)stigma

still-dripLatinstilla,stillaredistillation

stimul-goad, rouse, exciteLatinstimulusstimulate

stingu-,stinct-apartLatinstingueredistinction, distinguish

stoch-aimGreekstochastic

stom-mouthGreek(stoma)stomatoplasty

strept-twistedGreek (streptos)

strig-compressLatinstrix,strigisstrigogyps

strigos-having stiff bristlesLatin

string-,strict-upright, stiffLatinstringere,strictusstringent

stroph-turningGreek(stroph)apostrophe

stru-,struct-to make up, buildLatinstruere,structusconstruction, construe

stud-dedicationLatinstuderestudent

stup-wonderLatinstuperestupor

styl-column, pillarGreek(stulos)stylus

su-,sut-sewLatinsuere,sutussuture

sui-selfLatinsuisuicide

suad-,suas-urgeLatinsuadere,suasuspersuasion

suav-sweetLatinsuavissuave

sub-,su-,sus-belowLatinsubsubmerge

subter-underLatinsubtersubterfuge

sucr-sugarLatinsucrose

sud-sweatLatinsudaresudoriferous

sulc-furrowLatinsulcussulcus

sum-,sumpt-takeLatinsumere,sumptusassumption, consume

super-above, overLatinsupersupersede

supin-lying backLatinsupinussupination

supra-above, overLatinsuprasupranationalism

surd-deafLatinsurdusabsurdity

surg-riseLatinsurgereresurgent

syn-,sy-,syl-,sym-withGreek(sun)symbol, symmetry, synonym,system

syring-pipeGreek, (syrinx,syringos)syringe

[edit]TRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

tac-,-tic-be silentLatintacere,tacitusreticent, tacit

tach-swiftGreek(tachus)tachometer,tachycardia

taeni-ribbonGreek(tainia)taenidium,taeniodont,Taeniolabis

tal-ankleLatintalustalus bone

tang-,-ting-,tact-,tag-touchLatintangere,tactuscontact, tactile,tangent

tapet-carpetLatintapete,tapetistapestry,tapetum, tapis

tard-slowLatintardusretard,tardigrade, tardy

tars-ankleGreek (tarsos, a flat basket)tarsal

taur-bullGreek(tauros)Minotaur

taur-bullLatintaurusTaurus

tax-arrangement, orderGreek(taxis)taxonomy

techn-art, skillGreek(techn)technology

teg-,tect-coverLatintegere,tectusintegument, protection

tele-far, endGreek(tle)telegram,telephone,telescope

tele-completeGreek(telos)teleology

temn-cutGreek(temn)Temnospondyli

tempor-timeLatintempus,temporiscontemporary, temporal, temporary

ten-,-tin-,tent-holdLatintenere,tentuscontinent, detention, tenacious,tenor

tend-,tens-stretch, strainLatintendere,tensusextend, extension

tenu-slender, thinLatintenuisattenuate, tenuous

tep-be warmLatinteperetepid, tepor

ter-,trit-rubLatinterere,tritusattrition, contrite, detritus, trite

teret-roundedLatinteres,teretissubterete, teretial

terg-,ters-wipeLatintergere,tersusdetergent, terse

termin-boundary, limit, endLatinterminusdetermine, terminal, termination

tern-three eachLatinterniternary, ternion

terr-dry landLatinterrasubterranean, terrace, terracotta, terrain

terti-thirdLatintertiustertian, tertiary

test-witnessLatintestistestament, testimony

tetr-fourGreek(tessares)tetrahedron,tetrode

tex-,text-weaveLatintexere,textustexture, textile

thalam-chamber, bedGreek(thalamos)

thalass-seaGreek(thalassa)Panthalassa

than-deathGreek(thanatos)euthanasia

the-putGreek(tithemi)theme,thesis

-thecacaseGreek(thk)Bibliotheca

thel-Greek

the-,thus-godGreek(theos)theology, enthusiasm

theori-speculationGreek(theria)theorem,theory

ther-beast, animalGreek, (thr)theroid,theropod

therm-heat, warmGreek(thermos)endotherm,thermometer

thym-moodGreek(thumos)dysthymia

thyr-doorGreek(thura)thyratron

thyre-large shieldGreek(thureos)Thyreophora,thyroid, thyrotropin,thyroxine

tim-be afraidLatintimeretimid, timorous

ting-,tinct-moistenLatintingere,tinctustincture

tom-cutGreek (tome), (tomos)ectomy,atom, tome

ton-stretchGreek(tonos)isotonic, monotone, tone

top-placeGreek(topos)topic,topography

torn-cutLatin from Greektornare < (tornos)

torpe-numbLatintorperetorpent, torpid, torpor

torqu-,tort-twistLatintorquere,tortusextortion,torque,torture

tot-all, wholeLatintotussubtotal, total, totality

tox-arrow, bowGreek(toxon)

trab-beamLatintrabs,trabistrabeculae

trachy-roughGreek(trachus)trachea

trag-goatGreek(tragos)tragus

trah-,tract-draw, pullLatintrahere,tractussubtrahend,tractor

trans-,tra-,tran-acrossLatintranstradition,transcend,transportation

trapez-four-sided, tableGreek(trapeza)trapezoidtrapezius

traum-woundGreek(trauma)trauma, traumatic

trecent-three hundredLatintrecentitrecentennial, trecentillion

tredec-thirteenLatintredecimtredecimal

treiskaidek-thirteenGreek(treiskaideka)triskaidekaphobia

trem-trembleLatintremeretremor

trema-holeGreek(trma)trematode

tri-threeGreek, (treis,tria)triad,trigon,triode,tripod

tri-threeLatintrstriangle, triumvirate, trivia

tricen-thirty eachLatintricenitricenary

tricesim-,trigesim-thirtiethLatintricesimustrigesimal

trich-hairGreek, (thrix,trichos)peritrichous, trichopathophobia,Trichoptera

trin-three eachLatintrinitrinary, trine, trinity

trit-thirdGreek(tritos)tritagonist

troch-wheelGreek(trochos)trochlea

trop-turningGreek(tropos)heliotropism,psychotropic, tropic

troph-feed, growGreek,(trophos)dystrophy, pogonotrophy, trophic

trud-,trus-thrustLatintrudere,trususextrusion, intrude

tuss-coughLatintussis,tussirepertussis

tympan-drumGreek(tumpanon)tympani

typ-stamp, modelGreek(tupos)archetype, phenotype, typography

[edit]URootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

uber-fruitfulLatinuber,uberareexuberant

uligin-in marshesLatinuligo,uliginisuliginous

ulo-woolyGreek

ultim-farthestLatinultimusultimatum, ultimate

ultra-beyondLatinultraultrasonic

umbilic-navelLatinumbilicusumbilical

umbr-shade, shadowLatinumbrapenumbra,umbrella

un-,uni-oneLatinunus,uniusunary, union

unc-hookedLatinuncusuncinate

unci-ounce, twelfthLatinunciauncial

und-waveLatinundaabundant, undulate

undecim-eleventhLatinundecimusundecimal

unden-eleven eachLatinundeniundenary

ungui-claw, nailLatinunguis

ungul-claw, hoofLatinungulaungulate

ur-,uro-tailGreek (oura)uroid,uroborus

ur-,uro-urineGreek (ouron)urology

urb-cityLatinurbs,urbisurban, urbanize, suburbanite, urbanism

urg-workLatinurgereurgent

urs-bearLatinursusUrsa Major, ursine

ut-,us-useLatinuti,usususual, utility

uv-grapeLatinuvauvea

uxor-wifeLatinuxoruxoricide

[edit]VRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

vac-emptyLatinvacarevacancy, vacation,vacuum

vad-,vas-goLatinvadereevade, pervasive

vag-wanderLatinvagus,vagarevagabond, vague

van-empty, vain, idleLatinvanusvanity

vap-lack (of)Latinvaporevaporation, vapid, vaporize

veh-,vect-carryLatinvehere,vectusvehicle,vector

vel-veilLatinvelumrevelation, velate

vell-,vuls-pullLatinvellere,vulsusconvulsion

veloc-quickLatinvelox,velocisvelocity

ven-veinLatinvenavenosity

ven-huntLatinvenarivenison

ven-,vent-comeLatinvenireadvent,convention

vend-sellLatinvenderevendor, vending

vener-respectfulLatinvenusveneration, venereal

vent-windLatinventusventilation

ventr-bellyLatinventerventral

ver-trueLatinverusaver, veracious, verify, verisimilitude, verity

verb-wordLatinverbumverbal, verbatim, verbosity

verber-whipLatinverberreverberation

verm-wormLatinvermisvermiform

vern-springLatinver,vernusvernal

vert-,vers-turnLatinvertere,versusconvert, inversion, invert, vertical

vesic-bladderLatinvesicavesical

vesper-evening, westernLatinvesperavesperal

vest-clothe, garmentLatinvestisdivest,vest

vestig-follow, trackLatinvestigiuminvestigate

vet-forbidLatinvetareveto

veter-oldLatinvetus,veterisinveterate, veteran

vi-wayLatinviadeviate, obvious, via

vic-changeLatinvicisvice versa, vicissitude

vicen-,vigen-twentyLatinvicenivicenary

vicesim-,vigesim-twentiethLatinvicesimusvicesimary, vicesimation,vigesimal

vid-,vis-seeLatinvidere,visusvideo, vision

vil-cheapLatinvilisvile, vilify

vill-shaggy hair, velvetLatinvillusvilliform

vin-wineLatinvinumvinous

vinc-,vict-conquerLatinvincere,victusinvincible, victory

vir-manLatinvirvirility

vir-greenLatinvirerevirid, viridian

visc-thickLatinviscumviscosity

viscer-organs of the body cavityLatinviscus,visceriseviscerate, visceral

vit-lifeLatinvitavital, vitamin

vitell-yolkLatinvitellusvitellogenesis

viti-faultLatinvitiumvice, vitiate

vitr-glassLatinvitrumvitreous

viv-liveLatinvivererevive, survive, vivid

voc-voiceLatinvox,vocisprovocative, vocal, vocation

vol-flyLatinvolarevolatility

vol-wishLatinvellevolition

volv-,volut-rollLatinvolvere,volutusconvolution, revolve

vom-dischargeLatinvomerevomit

vor-,vorac-swallowLatinvorare,voraxdevour, voracious

vov-,vot-vowLatinvovere,votusvotive

vulg-common, crowdLatinvulgusdivulge,vulgarity,vulgate

vulner-woundLatinvulnus,vulnerisvulnerable

vulp-foxLatinvulpes,vulpisvulpine

[edit]XRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

xanth-yellowGreek (xanthos)xanthogenic

xen-foreignGreek (xenos)xenophobia

xer-dryGreek (xros)xerography,xerophyte

xiph-swordGreek (xiphos)xiphoid

xyl-woodGreek (xulon)xylophone,xylem

[edit]ZRootMeaning in EnglishOrigin languageEtymology (root origin)English examples

zo-animal, living beingGreek(zion)protozoa, zoo,zoology

zon-belt, girdleGreek(zn)zone

zyg-yokeGreek(zugon)heterozygous,zygote

zym-fermentGreek(zum)enzyme,lysozyme