Medical terminology · Positions and Directions

para- — Alongside, abnormal

para- means alongside, abnormal. Ancient Greek source words and medical terminology examples: parathyroid.

Meaning and source words

Meaning: Alongside, abnormal

• Ancient Greek: παρά (para)

Examples and word parts

parathyroid

Beside the thyroid; also names the nearby glands.

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Related positions and directions terms

• ab-, abs- — Away from

  abduction

• ambi- — Both sides

  ambidextrous

• ante- — Before, forward

  antenatal

• circum- — Around

  circumoral

• cycl- — Circle, cycle

  cyclic

• dextr-, dextro- — Right side

  dextrocardia

• de- — Away from, ending

  dehydration

• dia- — Across, through

  dialysis

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