Ancient Greek word root · Motion & Action

lys-: loosening, dissolving

lys- is an Ancient Greek root meaning “loosening, dissolving”. Learn its variants and explore 6 connected words.

Meaning and variants

Meaning: loosening, dissolving

Root forms: lys-, -lysis, -lyze, -lyte

Source word: λύω — to loose; to loosen; to untie

Word family and examples

• analysis

  detailed examination of the elements or structure of something

• paralysis

  The complete loss of voluntary control of part of a living body, such as one or more limbs.

• dialysis

  A method of separating molecules or particles of different sizes by differential diffusion through a semipermeable membrane.

• electrolyte

  A substance that, in solution or when molten, ionizes and conducts electricity.

• catalysis

  The increase of the rate of a chemical reaction, induced by a catalyst.

• hemolysis

  The destruction of red blood cells, and subsequent release of hemoglobin, at the normal end of the cell's life.

Root connections help with vocabulary recall. They are not a complete etymological history, and a spelling match alone does not prove a relationship.

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