-ism
condition, state
From Greek -ismos, a noun ending for an act, process or state
Meaning
What does -ism mean?
-ism is a suffix meaning condition, state. It comes from Greek -ismos, a noun ending for an act, process or state.
Split hyperthyroidism as hyper + thyr + oid + ism: the oid belongs to thyroid, from a Greek word for shield-shaped.
In real words
Medical words with -ism
hyperthyroidism
an overactive thyroid gland that makes too much hormone, speeding up the body's metabolism · In the dictionary
hypothyroidism
an underactive thyroid gland that makes too little hormone, slowing the body's metabolism · In the dictionary
sudden blockage of a blood vessel by an embolus such as a clot, fat or an air bubble · In the dictionary
thromboembolism
blockage of a blood vessel by a piece of clot that broke away from where it formed
a lifelong neurological and developmental condition affecting how a person communicates, interacts and behaves
Sources
Checked against
Written for biofideX in plain words, after checking these references:
- MedlinePlus: Appendix A: Word Parts and What They Mean
- -ISM Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
- Suffixes – Medical Terminology: An Interactive Approach
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Endings that make nouns and adjectives
-ism is one of 14 parts in this lesson. Learn them together, then take real words apart.
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