Medical Terminology, Foundations Of Word Structure, And Abbreviations

Reviewed by Editorial Team
The ProProfs editorial team is comprised of experienced subject matter experts. They've collectively created over 10,000 quizzes and lessons, serving over 100 million users. Our team includes in-house content moderators and subject matter experts, as well as a global network of rigorously trained contributors. All adhere to our comprehensive editorial guidelines, ensuring the delivery of high-quality content.
Learn about Our Editorial Process
| By XxMzEJxx
X
XxMzEJxx
Community Contributor
Quizzes Created: 4 | Total Attempts: 5,765
| Attempts: 799 | Questions: 63
Quiz Flashcard
Please wait...
Question 1 / 63
0 %
0/100
Score 0/100
1. The word element cardio means:

Explanation

The word element "cardio" is derived from the Greek word "kardia," which means "heart." This root is commonly used in medical terminology to refer to the heart or anything related to it. For example, words like "cardiology" (the study of the heart) and "cardiovascular" (relating to the heart and blood vessels) are formed using this root. Therefore, the correct answer is "heart."

Submit
Please wait...
About This Quiz
Medical Terminology, Foundations Of Word Structure, And Abbreviations - Quiz

This quiz assesses knowledge in Medical Terminology, focusing on word structure and common medical abbreviations. It covers foundational terms such as 'tissue', 'cell', and 'dilate', and abbreviations like... see more'UA' for urinalysis, crucial for anyone studying health sciences. see less

2. The abbreviation for laboratory is:

Explanation

The correct answer is "lab" because it is the commonly used and accepted abbreviation for the word "laboratory". It is a shorter and more convenient way to refer to a laboratory in written and spoken language.

Submit
3. The word element cranio means:

Explanation

The word element "cranio" is derived from the Latin word "cranium" which means skull. Therefore, cranio refers to the skull.

Submit
4. The word element ectomy means:

Explanation

The word element "ectomy" is commonly used in medical terminology to indicate the surgical removal of a specific body part or organ. This suffix is derived from the Greek word "ektomē," which means "cutting out" or "excision." Therefore, the correct answer is "surgical removal."

Submit
5. The medical term for the time when menstruation stops is:

Explanation

Menopause is the correct answer because it refers to the natural biological process in which a woman's menstrual cycles permanently stop, marking the end of her reproductive years. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 and is characterized by a decrease in the production of estrogen and progesterone hormones. Menopause can cause various symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and changes in sleep patterns. It is an important milestone in a woman's life and signifies the end of fertility.

Submit
6. The abbreviation for above or high is:

Explanation

The correct answer is "hyper" because it is an abbreviation commonly used in medical terminology to indicate above or high. It is often used to describe conditions or symptoms that are excessive or elevated.

Submit
7. The abbreviation carb means:

Explanation

The correct answer is "carbohydrate". Carb is an abbreviation commonly used to refer to carbohydrates, which are one of the three main macronutrients found in food. Carbohydrates provide energy to the body and are found in foods such as bread, pasta, rice, and fruits. The other options provided (carbolic and computer aided sleep system) are not commonly associated with the abbreviation "carb" and do not accurately represent its meaning.

Submit
8. The abbreviation for below or low is:

Explanation

The correct answer is "hypo" because it is the abbreviation for below or low.

Submit
9. The word element rhino means:

Explanation

The word element "rhino" is derived from the Greek word "rhis," which means "nose." Therefore, the correct answer is "nose."

Submit
10. High blood pressure is referred to as:

Explanation

High blood pressure is commonly referred to as hypertension. It is a condition in which the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. Palpitation refers to an irregular or rapid heartbeat, bradycardia refers to a slow heart rate, and tachycardia refers to a fast heart rate. However, neither of these terms specifically refers to high blood pressure.

Submit
11. The abbreviation for hour is:

Explanation

The correct answer is "hr or h" because "hr" and "h" are commonly used abbreviations for the word "hour." These abbreviations are widely recognized and used in various contexts, such as timekeeping, scheduling, and business operations.

Submit
12. The word element pneumo means:

Explanation

The word element "pneumo" is derived from the Greek word "pneuma" which means air or breath. It is commonly used in medical terms related to the respiratory system, such as pneumonia (inflammation of the lungs) or pneumothorax (collapsed lung). Therefore, the correct answer is "air, lungs".

Submit
13. The medical term for expanding or opening wider is:

Explanation

The correct answer is "dilate". Dilate refers to the process of expanding or opening wider. It is a medical term commonly used to describe the widening of blood vessels or the opening of a body cavity or passage. Dysuria refers to painful urination, defamation refers to damaging someone's reputation, and atelectasis refers to the collapse of part or all of the lung.

Submit
14. The medical term for paralysis on one side of the body is:

Explanation

Hemiplegia is the correct answer because it refers to paralysis on one side of the body. The term "hemi" means half, and "plegia" means paralysis. This condition usually occurs due to damage or injury to the brain or spinal cord on one side, resulting in loss of movement and sensation on the affected side. Paraplegia refers to paralysis of the lower body, quadriplegia refers to paralysis of all four limbs, and coma is a state of deep unconsciousness.

Submit
15. The medical term for circular movement around a central point is:

Explanation

Rotation is the correct answer because it refers to the circular movement around a central point. This term is commonly used in anatomy to describe movements such as turning the head or rotating the arm. It involves the pivoting of a body part around its axis, allowing for movement in a circular or arc-like pattern.

Submit
16. The abbreviation for Papanicolaou smear is:

Explanation

The correct answer is "pap smear" because it is the commonly used abbreviation for Papanicolaou smear. The Papanicolaou smear, also known as a pap smear, is a screening test used to detect cervical cancer and other abnormalities in the cervix. The term "pap smear" is widely recognized and used in medical practice, making it the correct abbreviation for Papanicolaou smear.

Submit
17. The medical term for loss of appetite is:

Explanation

The correct answer is anorexia. Anorexia is the medical term used to describe a loss of appetite. It is a symptom that can occur due to various underlying medical conditions or psychological factors. Dehydration refers to a condition of excessive loss of body fluids, edema refers to the swelling caused by fluid retention, and nutrient refers to essential substances needed for growth and maintenance of the body.

Submit
18. The abbreviation for chief complaint is:

Explanation

The correct answer is CC. CC stands for chief complaint, which refers to the main reason or concern that brings a patient to seek medical attention. It is a concise statement that summarizes the symptoms, problems, or conditions that the patient is experiencing. The abbreviation CC is commonly used in medical records and healthcare settings to document and communicate the primary issue or reason for a patient's visit.

Submit
19. The abbreviation for gastrointestinal is:

Explanation

The correct answer is GI or G.I. The abbreviation GI stands for gastrointestinal, which refers to the digestive system that includes the stomach and intestines. The abbreviation G.I. is commonly used in medical and healthcare settings to represent gastrointestinal.

Submit
20. The medical abbreviation for by mouth is:

Explanation

The correct answer is "po". "po" is the medical abbreviation for "by mouth" or "per oral". It is derived from the Latin phrase "per os" which means "by way of the mouth". This abbreviation is commonly used to indicate that a medication should be taken orally, either by swallowing a pill or liquid.

Submit
21. The medical term for the abnormal shortening of a muscle is:

Explanation

A contracture refers to the abnormal shortening of a muscle. This condition can occur due to various reasons such as immobility, muscle weakness, or neurological disorders. When a muscle undergoes a contracture, it becomes tight, stiff, and restricted in its range of motion. This can lead to pain, muscle deformity, and difficulty in performing daily activities. Treatment for contractures may involve physical therapy, stretching exercises, and in severe cases, surgical intervention.

Submit
22. The abbreviation for cancer is:

Explanation

The correct answer is CA. CA is the abbreviation for cancer.

Submit
23. Neoplasm refers to:

Explanation

Neoplasm refers to new growth. This term is commonly used in the medical field to describe the abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells, which can lead to the formation of tumors. Neoplasms can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). The term "neoplasm" is derived from the Greek words "neo" meaning new and "plasma" meaning formation or growth. Therefore, the correct answer is new growth.

Submit
24. The suffix -emia means:

Explanation

The suffix -emia refers to a condition or presence of a substance in the blood. It is commonly used in medical terms to indicate various blood-related conditions or disorders. For example, anemia refers to a condition where there is a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood. Therefore, the correct answer is "blood."

Submit
25. The word elements algia, algesia refer to :

Explanation

The word elements "algia" and "algesia" are derived from the Greek word "algos" which means pain. Therefore, these word elements specifically refer to the sensation of pain.

Submit
26. The abbreviation for urinalysis is:

Explanation

The correct answer is UA. UA is the abbreviation for urinalysis, which is a diagnostic test that examines the urine for various substances, such as cells, bacteria, and chemical compounds. This test helps in detecting and monitoring various conditions and diseases, including urinary tract infections, kidney diseases, and diabetes.

Submit
27. The medical term for an involuntary movement is:

Explanation

An involuntary movement refers to a movement that occurs without conscious control. The term "reflex" accurately describes this type of movement, as it is an automatic response to a stimulus. Reflexes are controlled by the nervous system and are essential for the body to react quickly to potential danger or to maintain balance and coordination. Therefore, "reflex" is the appropriate medical term for an involuntary movement.

Submit
28. The medical term for sugar in the urine is:

Explanation

Glucosuria is the medical term for the presence of sugar (glucose) in the urine. It occurs when the blood glucose level is too high, causing the kidneys to excrete the excess glucose into the urine. This can be a sign of diabetes or other underlying medical conditions affecting glucose metabolism. Ketone bodies and acetone are not related to sugar in the urine, and a catheter is a medical device used for draining urine from the bladder.

Submit
29. The word element renal means:

Explanation

The word element "renal" specifically refers to the kidney. It is derived from the Latin word "renes," which means kidneys. This term is commonly used in medical terminology to describe conditions or procedures related to the kidneys. Therefore, "kidney" is the correct answer as it accurately reflects the meaning of the word element "renal."

Submit
30. The abbreviation for postprandial blood sugar is:

Explanation

The correct answer is PPBS, which stands for postprandial blood sugar. Postprandial refers to the period after a meal, and measuring blood sugar levels during this time can provide valuable information about how the body processes glucose after eating. PPBS is commonly used in medical settings to monitor and diagnose conditions such as diabetes.

Submit
31. The abbreviation for temperature, pulse, and respiration is:

Explanation

The abbreviation TPR stands for temperature, pulse, and respiration. This abbreviation is commonly used in medical settings to refer to these vital signs. By using TPR, healthcare professionals can efficiently communicate and document these important measurements.

Submit
32. The medical term for paralysis from the wasit down is :

Explanation

Paraplegia refers to the medical condition of paralysis from the waist down. It is characterized by the loss of sensation and motor function in the lower limbs due to damage or injury to the spinal cord. This condition typically results in the inability to move or control the legs and may also affect bowel and bladder control. Coma, quadriplegia, and disaster are unrelated terms and do not specifically refer to paralysis from the waist down.

Submit
33. The medical term for moving a body part away from the body is:

Explanation

Abduction is the correct answer because it refers to the movement of a body part away from the midline of the body. This term is commonly used in anatomy to describe movements such as moving the arms or legs away from the body. Rotation refers to the movement of a body part around its own axis, dorsiflexion refers to the upward movement of the foot, and pronation refers to the rotation of the forearm so that the palm faces downwards.

Submit
34. The abbreviation for discontinue is:

Explanation

The abbreviation "d/c" is the correct answer for the abbreviation of "discontinue". It is commonly used in medical and pharmaceutical contexts to indicate the discontinuation of a medication or treatment.

Submit
35. The medical term for paralysis from the neck down is:

Explanation

Quadriplegia is the correct answer because it refers to paralysis of all four limbs and the torso, typically caused by a spinal cord injury in the cervical region of the spine. This condition results in loss of sensation and motor function below the level of injury, affecting both arms and legs. Paraplegia, on the other hand, refers to paralysis of the lower half of the body, while hemiplegia refers to paralysis of one side of the body. Stroke is a medical condition that can cause paralysis, but it does not specifically refer to paralysis from the neck down.

Submit
36. The word element adeno means:

Explanation

The word element "adeno" refers to glands. This is evident from the fact that "adeno" is derived from the Greek word "aden," which means gland. Therefore, the correct answer is gland.

Submit
37. The abbreviation for toxic shock syndrome is:

Explanation

Toxic shock syndrome is commonly abbreviated as TSS.

Submit
38. The word element phlebo means:

Explanation

The word element "phlebo" refers to veins. Veins are blood vessels that carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart. This can be deduced from the fact that the other options, breathing, air, lungs, and alongside of, do not relate to veins. Therefore, the correct answer is vein.

Submit
39. The word element emesis means:

Explanation

The word element "emesis" refers to the act of vomiting. It is derived from the Greek word "emein," which means "to vomit." Therefore, the correct answer is "vomiting."

Submit
40. The word element post means:

Explanation

The word element "post" means "after".

Submit
41. The word element osis means:

Explanation

The word element "osis" is commonly used in medical terminology to indicate a condition or state. It is derived from the Greek language and is often added to the end of a word to describe a specific condition or abnormality. For example, "osteoporosis" refers to the condition of having porous bones. Therefore, "condition of" is the correct explanation for the word element "osis".

Submit
42. The common tern for a decubitus ulcer; a pressure sore is:

Explanation

A decubitus ulcer, also known as a pressure sore, is commonly referred to as a bedsore. This term accurately describes the condition as it is a sore or ulcer that develops due to prolonged pressure on the skin, typically from lying in bed or sitting in a wheelchair for extended periods. The term "bedsore" clearly indicates the association of the condition with being bedridden or immobile for extended periods, leading to the development of ulcers.

Submit
43. The opposite of deep is:

Explanation

The opposite of deep is superficial. Deep implies a significant distance or intensity, while superficial refers to something shallow or lacking depth. Therefore, superficial is the correct opposite in this context.

Submit
44. The medical term for a decrease in size or a wasting is:

Explanation

Atrophy is the medical term used to describe a decrease in size or wasting of a body part or tissue. This can occur due to various reasons such as disuse, injury, or disease. Pronation refers to the movement of turning the palm or sole downward, plantar flexion is the movement of pointing the foot downward, and abduction refers to the movement of taking a body part away from the midline. However, none of these terms specifically describe a decrease in size or wasting, making atrophy the correct answer.

Submit
45. The abbreviation for bedtime or hour of sleep is:

Explanation

The correct answer is "hs" because it stands for "hora somni" which is Latin for "hour of sleep". It is commonly used in medical and healthcare settings to indicate the time at which a patient should go to bed or sleep.

Submit
46. The medical term for the time when menstruation begins is:

Explanation

Menarche is the correct answer because it refers to the medical term for the onset of menstruation in females. It marks the beginning of reproductive capability and typically occurs during puberty. Menopause, on the other hand, refers to the end of menstruation and reproductive capacity in women, usually occurring in their late 40s or early 50s. "Period" is a colloquial term for menstruation and does not specifically denote the beginning of menstruation.

Submit
47. The medical term for moving a body part toward the midline of the body is:

Explanation

Adduction is the correct answer because it refers to the movement of a body part towards the midline of the body. This movement is commonly seen in activities such as bringing the arms or legs closer to the body. Flexion refers to the bending of a joint, abduction refers to moving a body part away from the midline, and contracture refers to the abnormal shortening or tightening of muscles, tendons, or other tissues.

Submit
48. The word element cise means

Explanation

The word element "cise" means to cut. This can be inferred from the fact that "cut" is the only option that directly relates to the meaning of "cise". The other options do not have any connection to the word element provided.

Submit
49. Erythema refers to:

Explanation

Erythema refers to red skin. This term is used to describe abnormal redness of the skin, which can be caused by various factors such as inflammation, irritation, or increased blood flow to the area. It is a common symptom in conditions like sunburn, allergic reactions, or infections. The other options, blue skin, gray skin, and yellow skin, do not accurately describe erythema.

Submit
50. The medical term for straightening of a body part is:

Explanation

Extension is the correct answer because it refers to the straightening of a body part. When a joint or body part is extended, it is moved in a way that increases the angle between two adjacent body parts. This movement is commonly seen in the limbs, such as extending the arm or leg. Flexion, dorsiflexion, and pronation all involve bending or movement in different directions, so they are not the correct medical term for straightening a body part.

Submit
51. The medical term for the basic unit of body structure is:

Explanation

The medical term for the basic unit of body structure is a cell. Cells are the smallest functional and structural units of living organisms. They are responsible for carrying out all the essential functions of the body, such as growth, repair, and reproduction. Cells are specialized to perform specific tasks and are organized into tissues, organs, and systems to work together for the overall functioning of the body.

Submit
52. The word element super means:

Explanation

The word element "super" means "above." This can be seen in words like "superior" which means higher in rank or position, or "superhuman" which refers to something beyond normal human abilities. The prefix "super-" is commonly used to indicate something that is higher, greater, or superior to something else.

Submit
53. The word element centesis means:

Explanation

The word element "centesis" refers to a medical procedure that involves puncturing a body cavity or organ with a needle in order to remove fluid or obtain a sample for diagnostic purposes. This term is commonly used in medical terminology to describe procedures such as amniocentesis (puncture of the amniotic sac for prenatal testing) or thoracentesis (puncture of the chest wall to drain fluid from the pleural cavity). Therefore, the correct answer is "puncture".

Submit
54. The abbreviation for grain is:

Explanation

The correct answer is "gr" because it is the standard abbreviation for the unit of measurement "grain".

Submit
55. The abbreviation for dressing is:

Explanation

The abbreviation for dressing is "dsg".

Submit
56. The medical term for turning the palm backward is:

Explanation

Pronation refers to the movement of turning the palm backward. It involves the rotation of the forearm so that the palm faces downward or backward. This movement is commonly observed when the hand is rotated to place the palm facing downward or when the forearm is rotated inward. In contrast, supination refers to the movement of turning the palm forward or upward. Adduction refers to the movement of bringing a body part towards the midline of the body, while external rotation refers to the rotation of a body part away from the midline of the body.

Submit
57. The abbreviation for electroencephalogram is:

Explanation

The correct answer is EEG. Electroencephalogram is a medical test that measures and records the electrical activity of the brain. The abbreviation "EEG" is commonly used to refer to this test.

Submit
58. The medical term for groups of cells with the same function is

Explanation

The medical term for groups of cells with the same function is tissue. Tissue refers to a collection of cells that work together to perform a specific function in the body. It can be classified into four main types: epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissue. Each type of tissue has distinct characteristics and functions, contributing to the overall structure and function of organs and systems in the body.

Submit
59. The medical term for turning the palm forward as applied to the hand is:

Explanation

Supination is the correct answer because it refers to the movement of the hand where the palm is turned forward or upward. This motion is commonly seen when holding a bowl of soup or when performing a bicep curl. Extension refers to straightening a joint, flexion is the bending of a joint, and adduction refers to bringing a body part towards the midline.

Submit
60. The medical term for bending a body part is:

Explanation

Flexion is the correct answer because it refers to the bending of a body part, typically at a joint, which decreases the angle between two bones or body segments. This movement is commonly seen in various parts of the body, such as the elbow, knee, or spine, and allows for increased mobility and range of motion. Dorsiflexion refers specifically to the upward bending of the foot at the ankle, while external rotation refers to the outward rotation of a limb. Range-of-motion is a broader term that encompasses all types of movements within a joint.

Submit
61. The medical term for bending backward is:

Explanation

Dorsiflexion refers to the movement of bending the foot and toes upward, towards the shin. It is the opposite of plantarflexion, which is the movement of pointing the foot and toes downward. The term "bending backward" is not accurate in describing dorsiflexion, as it specifically refers to the movement of the foot and toes. Contracture refers to a permanent shortening or tightening of muscles, tendons, or other tissues, while hyperextension refers to excessive extension of a joint beyond its normal range of motion. Extension simply refers to the straightening or increasing the angle of a joint.

Submit
62. The medical term for tube feeding is:

Explanation

Gavage is the correct answer because it refers to the medical term for tube feeding. Gavage involves the process of introducing liquid nutrition directly into the stomach through a tube, bypassing the normal process of eating and swallowing. This method is commonly used when a person is unable to eat or swallow on their own due to various medical conditions or circumstances.

Submit
63. The word element stomato means:

Explanation

The word element "stomato" is derived from the Greek word "stoma" which means "mouth". It is used to refer to both the anatomical mouth and the opening of the uterus, known as the ostium uteri. Therefore, the correct answer is "mouth or the ostium uteri".

Submit
View My Results

Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Mar 21, 2023 +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Mar 21, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • May 22, 2010
    Quiz Created by
    XxMzEJxx
Cancel
  • All
    All (63)
  • Unanswered
    Unanswered ()
  • Answered
    Answered ()
The word element cardio means:
The abbreviation for laboratory is:
The word element cranio means:
The word element ectomy means:
The medical term for the time when menstruation stops is:
The abbreviation for above or high is:
The abbreviation carb means:
The abbreviation for below or low is:
The word element rhino means:
High blood pressure is referred to as:
The abbreviation for hour is:
The word element pneumo means:
The medical term for expanding or opening wider is:
The medical term for paralysis on one side of the body is:
The medical term for circular movement around a central point is:
The abbreviation for Papanicolaou smear is:
The medical term for loss of appetite is:
The abbreviation for chief complaint is:
The abbreviation for gastrointestinal is:
The medical abbreviation for by mouth is:
The medical term for the abnormal shortening of a muscle is:
The abbreviation for cancer is:
Neoplasm refers to:
The suffix -emia means:
The word elements algia, algesia refer to :
The abbreviation for urinalysis is:
The medical term for an involuntary movement is:
The medical term for sugar in the urine is:
The word element renal means:
The abbreviation for postprandial blood sugar is:
The abbreviation for temperature, pulse, and respiration is:
The medical term for paralysis from the wasit down is :
The medical term for moving a body part away from the body is:
The abbreviation for discontinue is:
The medical term for paralysis from the neck down is:
The word element adeno means:
The abbreviation for toxic shock syndrome is:
The word element phlebo means:
The word element emesis means:
The word element post means:
The word element osis means:
The common tern for a decubitus ulcer; a pressure sore is:
The opposite of deep is:
The medical term for a decrease in size or a wasting is:
The abbreviation for bedtime or hour of sleep is:
The medical term for the time when menstruation begins is:
The medical term for moving a body part toward the midline of the body...
The word element cise means
Erythema refers to:
The medical term for straightening of a body part is:
The medical term for the basic unit of body structure is:
The word element super means:
The word element centesis means:
The abbreviation for grain is:
The abbreviation for dressing is:
The medical term for turning the palm backward is:
The abbreviation for electroencephalogram is:
The medical term for groups of cells with the same function is
The medical term for turning the palm forward as applied to the hand...
The medical term for bending a body part is:
The medical term for bending backward is:
The medical term for tube feeding is:
The word element stomato means:
Alert!

Advertisement