What is the term for the part of a term that appears before a word root, altering its meaning?

The term for the part of a term that appears before a word root, altering its meaning, is known as a prefix. Prefixes are used in medical terminology to modify the meaning of the root word, which typically refers to a body part or a specific function. For instance, the prefix "hypo-" means under or below, and when combined with the root "glyc" (meaning sugar), forms the term "hypoglycemia," which refers to low blood sugar levels.

In contrast, a suffix is added to the end of a word root to modify its meaning or to indicate a procedure, condition, or a disease. A root serves as the foundation of the term and conveys the core meaning, while a combining form is a specific type of root word that has been altered to facilitate easier pronunciation when combined with other morphemes. Understanding these components helps in breaking down complex medical terms, making it easier to understand their meaning and context in the field of medicine.