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
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