List of Greek and Latin roots in English

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

The following is an alphabetical list of Greek and Latin roots, stems, and prefixes commonly used in English.
Some of those used in medicine and medical terminology are not listed here but instead in Wikipedia's List of
medical roots, suffixes and prefixes.
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

A
Root

Meaning in English

Origin
language

Etymology (root origin)

English examples

ab-, a-, abs-

away from

Latin

ab "away"

abnormal, abrasion, absent,

abstain, abstraction, aversion

ac-

sharp or pointed

Latin

acere

acupuncture

acerb-

sharp, bitter, sour

Latin

acerbus

acerbic, exacerbate

acid-

sour or acid

Latin

acidus

acidosis, acidulation

acr-

height, summit, tip

Greek

(akros) "high", "extreme"

acrobatics, acromegaly,
acronym, acrophobia

acr-

bitter, pungent, sharp, sour

Latin

acer, acris

acrid, acrimony

acu-

sharp

Latin

acutus, past participle of acuere "to

sharpen", from acus "needle"

acupuncture, acute, acutifoliate

ad-, a-, ac-, af-, ag-,

al-, ap-, ar-, as-, at-

movement to or toward; in
addition to

Latin

ad "to", "toward"

accept, adapt, affect,

aggression, approximate,
ascend

adip-

fat

Latin

adeps, adipis "fat"

adipose

aer-

air, atmosphere

Greek

(ar) "air"

aeronautics, aeroplane, aerosol

aesthet-

feeling, sensation

Greek

(aisthtikos) "of sense

perception" from
(aisthanesthai) "to perceive"

aesthetics, anaesthetic

ag-, act-

do

Latin

agere, actus

act, agent

agr-

field

Greek

(agros) "field"

agronomy,

agri-, -egri-

field

Latin

ager, agris "field, country"

agriculture, peregrine

alb-

dull white

Latin

albus

albedo, albino, albumen

am-, amat-

love

Latin

amre, amatus, amor

amateur, amatory, amorous

ambi-

both, on both sides

Latin

ambi

ambidexterity, ambivalent

ambul-

to walk

Latin

ambulare

ambulance, ambulatory

amic-, -imic-

friend

Latin

amicus

amicable, inimical

amph-, amphi-

around, about, both, on both

sides of, both kinds

Greek

(amphi) "on both sides"

amphibian, amphibolic,
amphoterism

ampl-

ample, abundant, bountiful

Latin

amplus

amplification

an-, a-

not, without

Greek

Greek -/- "not"

anhydrous, atypical

ana-, an-

again, against, back, up

Greek

(ana)

anabaptist, anaphylaxis, anion,

anode

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

andr-

male, masculine

Greek

andros

androgen, android

anem-

wind

Greek

anemos

anemometer

anim-

breath, life, spirit

Latin

anima "breath"

animal, animation

ann-, -enn-

year, yearly

Latin

annus "year"

anniversary, annual, biannual,

millennium

ant-, anti-

against, opposed to, preventive Greek

anti "against"

antagonist, antibiotic, antipodes

ante-, anti-

before, in front of, prior to

Latin

ante "before", "against"

antebellum, antediluvian,
anticipate, antiquarian

anth-

flower

Greek

(anthos) "flower"

anther, anthology

anthra-

coal

Greek

(anthraks)

anthracite, anthrax

anthrop-

human

Greek

(anthropos) "man"

anthropology, anthropomorphic

ap-, apo-

away from, separate, at the

farthest point

Greek

(apo) "from, away, un-, quite"

aphelion, apocrine, apogee,

apostasy

aqu-

water

Latin

aqua

aquamarine, aquarium,
aqueduct, aquifer

ar-

plow, till

Latin

rre

arable

ar-

be dry

Latin

rre "be dry or parched"

arid

arche-, archi-

ruler

Greek

(arch) "rule" (in compounds: -,

-)

archangel, archetype

archae-, arche-

ancient

Greek

arkhaios "ancient" from arkh

"beginning"

archaeology or archeology,
archaic

arct-

Relating to the North Pole or

the region near it; relating to
cold

Greek

arktos "bear"

Arctic Ocean

argent-

silver

Latin

argentum

argent, Argentina

areta-

virtue

Greek

aret

aretaic

arist-

excellence

Greek

aristos

aristocracy

arthr-

joint

Greek

(arthron)

arthritis, arthropod

astr-

star, star-shaped

Greek

(astron) "star"

asterisk, astrology, astronomy

athl-

prize

Greek

(athlos) "contest, feat"

athlete, pentathlon

-athroid

gathered or lumped together

Greek

(athroidzo) "I gather together"

hypoathroid, epiathroid

audi-

hearing, listening, sound

Latin

audire "to hear"

audible, auditorium, auditory

aug-, auct-

grow, increase

Latin

augre, auctus "to increase"

augend, augmentation

aur-

relating to gold, or
gold-colored

Latin

aurum "gold"

aureate, aureole

auri-

relating to the ear

Latin

auris "ear"

auricle

aut-, auto-

self; directed from within

Greek

(autos) "self", "same"

autarchy, autograph,
automobile, autonomy

avi-

bird

Latin

avis

aviary, aviation

axi-

axis

Latin

axis

axisymmetry

axi(o)-

merit

Greek

(axios) "worth"

axiology, axiom

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

B
Root

Meaning in English

Origin
language

Etymology (root origin)

English examples

bac-

rod-shaped

Latin

baculum

baculiform, baculum

bar-

weight, pressure

Greek

(baros)

barograph, barometer, barostat

basi-

at the bottom

Greek

(basis) "step", from (bain), "I

walk, march"

basic, basis

bathy-,
batho-

deep, depth

Greek

(baths, baths)

batholith, bathymetry,
bathyscaphe

be-, beat-

bless

Latin

beare, beatus

beatification

bell-

war

Latin

bellum, belli

antebellum, bellicose, belligerent

ben-

good, well

Latin

bene (adverb)

benefit, benignity

bi-

two

Latin

bis, "twice"; bini, "in twos"

binary, binoculars, bigamy,

biscotti

bib-

drink

Latin

bibere, bibitus

imbibe

bibl-

book

Greek

(biblon) "book"

bible, bibliography

bio-

life

Greek

(bos) "life"

biography, biologist, biology,

biosphere

blenn-

slime

Greek

(blennos)

blennophobia, blennosperma

blast-

germ, embryo, bud, cell with

nucleus

Greek

(blastain), "I put forth shoots"

blastula, fibroblast, osteoblast,

sideroblast

bon-

good

Latin

bonus

bonify, bonitary

bore-

north

Latin from
Greek

borealis "northern" from (Boreas)

"the north wind"

borealis

botan-

plant

Greek

, (botan, botanon)

botanic, botanist, botany

bov-

cow, ox

Latin

bos, bovis

bovine

brachi-

arm

Greek

(brakhn)

brachial artery, brachiosaurus

brachy-

short

Greek

(brakhs, brakhs)

brachycephaly, brachydactyly

brady-

slow

Greek

(brads, brads)

bradycardia

branchi-

gill

Greek

(brgkhion, brnkhion)

branchiopod, nudibranch

brev-

brief, short (time)

Latin

brevis, breviare

abbreviation, brevity

brom-

food

Greek

(brma)

bromatium, bromatology

brom-

oats

Greek

, (brmos, brm) "oats"

brome, Bromus, Bromus ramosus

brom-

stench

Greek

(brmos) "stench, clangor"

bromate, bromide, bromine

bronch-

windpipe

Greek

(brgkhos, brnkhos)

bronchiole, bronchitis, bronchus

bront-

thunder

Greek

(bront)

Brontosaurus

bucc-

cheek, mouth, cavity

Latin

bucca

buccal, buccinator muscle

bulb-

bulbous

Latin

bulbus

bulbous, bulbule

bull-

bubble, flask

Latin

bulla, "bubble"

ebullient, ebullism

burs-

pouch, purse

Latin

bursa

bursa, bursar, bursary, disburse

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

C
Root

Meaning in English

Origin
language

Etymology (root origin)

English examples

cac-

bad

Greek

(kakos)

cacophony

cad-, -cid-, cas-

fall

Latin

cadere, casus

accident, cadence, case

caed-, -cid-, caes-, cut

-cis-

Latin

caedere, caesus

caesura, incisor, scissors

calc-

stone

Latin and
Greek

from Latin calx "lime" from Greek calcite, calcium, calculate, calculus,
(khalix) "pebble", "limestone"
chalicothere

call-

beautiful

Greek

(kallos) "beauty"

calligraphy

calor-

heat

Latin

calor "heat"

calorie

calyp-

cover

Greek

(kaluptein)

apocalypse

camer-

vault

Latin

camera

bicameral, camera

camp-

field

Latin

campus "field", "level ground"

champion, campaign

can-

dog

Latin

canis

canine, Canis Major

can-, -cin-, cant-

sing

Latin

canere

cantata, canto, cantor

cand-

glowing, iridescent

Latin

candere "to be white or glisten"

candela, candid, candle, candor,

incandescent, incendiary, incense

cap-, -cip-, capt-,

-cept-

hold, take

Latin

capere, captus "take or hold" (vowel

changes from a to i in compounds)

captive, capture, conception, recipient

capit-, -cipit-

head

Latin

caput, capitis

capital, decapitation, precipitation

capr-

goat

Latin

caper, capri

Capricorn, caprine

caps-

box, case

Latin

capsa

capsule

carbo-

coal

Latin

carbo, carbonis

carbohydrate

carcer-

jail

Latin

carcer, carcerare

incarceration

carcin-

cancer (disease)

Latin from
Greek

Latin from Greek (karkinos)

"crab"

carcinogenic, carcinoma

cardi-

relating to the heart

Greek

(kardia)

cardiograph, cardiology

cardin-

hinge

Latin

cardo, cardinis

cardinal

carn-

flesh

Latin

caro, carnis

carnal, carnival, carnivore

carp-

fruit

Greek

(karpos) "fruit"

carpology

carp-

wrist

Greek

(karpos) "wrist"

carpal, carpal tunnel syndrome

cast-

pure

Latin

castus "chaste"

caste, castigate

cata-, cat-

down

Greek

(kat) "down"

catabolic, catalyst, catastrophe,

catatonia, cathode, cation

caten-

chain

Latin

catena

catenary, concatenation

cathar-

pure

Greek

(katharos)

catharsis

caud-

tail

Latin

cauda

caudal, coda

caus-, -cus-

cause or motive

Latin

causa

causative

cav-

hollow

Latin

cavus

cave, cavity, excavation

ced-, cess-

go

Latin

cedere, cessus

procession, recede, secede

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

celer-

quick

Latin

celer, celerare

acceleration, celerity

cen-

new

Greek

(kainos)

Cenozoic

cen-

empty

Greek

(kenos)

cenotaph

cen-

common

Greek

(koinos)

cenobite

cens-

to assess

Latin

censere

census

cent-

hundred

Latin

centum

cent, centennial, centurion

centen-

hundred each

Latin

centeni

centenarian, centenary

centesim-

hundredth

Latin

centesimus

centesimal, centesimation

centr-

center

Greek

(kntron) "needle", "spur"

eccentric

cephal-

head

Greek

(kephal)

cephalic, cephalopod, encephalogram

ceram-

clay

Greek

(keramos)

ceramic

cerat-

horn

Greek

, (keras, keratos)

keratin, triceratops

cern-

sift

Latin

cernere

discern, secern

cervic-

relating to the neck,

relating to the cervix

Latin

cervix, cervicis "neck"

cervix, cervical

ceter-

other

Latin

ceterus

et cetera

chir-

of the hand or hands

Greek

(kheir) "hand"

chiral, chiropractic, chiroptera

chelon-

relating to a turtle

Greek

(khelne) "tortoise"

chelonia

chlor-

green

Greek

(khlros)

chlorine, chlorophyll, chloroplast

chore-

relating to dance

Greek

(khoreia) "dancing in unison"

from (khoros) "chorus"

choreography

chord-

cord

Latin and
Greek

chorda "rope" from (chord)

chordata

chrom-

color

Greek

(chrma)

chromium, chromosome, monochrome

chron-

time

Greek

(chronos)

chronic, chronology, chronometer

chrys-

gold

Greek

(khrusos)

chrysalis, chrysolite

cili-

eyelash

Latin

cilium

cilia, supercilious

cine-

motion

Greek

(kine)

cinema

ciner-

ash

Latin

cinis, cineris

incineration

cing-, cinct-

gird

Latin

cingere, cinctus

succinct

circ-

circle, ring

Latin

circus

circular, circus

circum-

around

Latin

circum

circumcise, circumference,
circumlocution, circumnavigate

cirr-

orange

Greek

(kirros)

cirrhosis

cirr-

curl, tentacle

Latin

cirrus

cirrus

civ-

citizen

Latin

civis

civic, civility

clad-

branch

Greek

(klados)

clade

clar-

clear

Latin

clarus, clarare

clarity, declaration

clast-

broken

Greek

(klastos)

iconoclast, osteoclast

claud-, -clud-,
claus-, -clus-

close

Latin

claudere, clausus

clause, exclusion, include

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

clav-

key

Greek

from Greek (kleis) "key" from

, (kleiein) "to close"

clavichord, clavicle, conclave

cleist-

closed

Greek

(kleistos)

cleistogamy

cleithr-

bar, key

Greek

clement-

mild

Latin

clemens, clementis

clemency, inclement

clin-

bed

Greek

(klin)

clinic

clin-

lean, recline

Latin

-clinare

declination, inclined

cochl-

snail, spiral shell

Greek

(kochlos)

cochlea

coel-

hollow

Greek

(koilos)

blastocoel, coelom, spongocoel

cogn-

know

Latin

cognoscere, cognitus

cognitive, cognizant, recognize

col-

strain

Latin

colare, colum

colander, coulee, percolate

coll-

hill

Latin

collis

colliculus

coll-

neck

Latin

collum

collar

color-

color

Latin

color

coloration, coloratura, tricolor

con-, co-, col-,

com-, cor-

with, together

Latin

cum

coagulate, collide, compress, connect,

contain, corrode

con-

cone

Greek

(knos)

conic, conical, conoid

condi-

season

Latin

condire

condiment

contra-

against

Latin

contra

contraception, contradiction, contrast

copr-

dung

Greek

(kopros)

coprolite, coprophagia, coprophilia

corac-

raven

Greek

, (korax, korakos)

coracoid

cord-

heart

Latin

cor, cordis

accord, cordial

corn-

horn

Latin

cornu

cornea, cornucopia, unicorn

coron-

crown

Latin

corona, coronare

corona, coronation

corpor-

body

Latin

corpus, corporis

corporation, corpse, corpuscle

cortic-

bark

Latin

cortex, corticis

cortical, corticosteriod

cosm-

universe

Greek

(kosmos)

cosmic, cosmonaut

cosmet-

the art of dress and

ornament

Greek

(kosmetike) from
(kosmos)

cosmetics, cosmetology

cost-

rib

Latin

costa

costal

cotyl-

cup

Greek

(kotul)

cotyledon

-cracy, -crat

government, rule,
authority

Greek

(kratos)

democracy

crani-

skull

Greek

(kranion)

cranium

crass-

thick

Latin

crassus

crassitude

cre-

make

Latin

creare, creatus

creation, creature

cred-

believe, trust

Latin

credere, creditus

credentials, credibility, creditor,

incredible

crep-

boot, shoe

Greek

, (krpis, krpidos)

crepidoma

cribr-

sieve

Latin

cribrum, cribrare

cribble, cribrate

cric-

ring

Greek

(krikos)

cricoid

cleithrum

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

crisi-, crit-

judge

Greek

(crisis)

crisis, critic

crisp-

curled

Latin

crispus

crepe, crispate

crist-

crest

Latin

crista

cristate

cross-

fringe, tassel

Greek

(krossos)

crossopterygii

cruc-

cross

Latin

crux, crucis

crucial, crucifix, crucify, excruciating

crur-

leg, shank

Latin

crus, cruris

crural

crypt-

hidden

Greek

(kruptos)

cryptic, cryptography

cten-

comb

Greek

, (kteis, ktenos)

ctenophore

cub-

cube

Greek

(kubos)

cubic, cuboid

cub-

lie

Latin

cubare

incubation, succuba

culin-

kitchen

Latin

culina

culinary

culp-

blame, fault

Latin

culpa

culpable, exculpate

cune-

wedge

Latin

cuneus

cuneiform

cur-

care for

Latin

cura, curare

accurate, curator, cure

curr-, curs-

run

Latin

currere, cursus

concurrent, current, cursive, recursion

curv-

bent

Latin

curvus

curvature

cuspid-

lance, point

Latin

cuspis, cuspidis

bicuspid

cut-

skin

Latin

cutis

cutaneous, cuticle

cyan-

blue

Greek

(kuanos)

cyanide

cycl-

circular

Greek

(kuklos)

bicycle, cycle, cyclone

cylind-

roll

Greek

(kulindros)

cylinder

cyn-

dog

Greek

, (kun, kunos)

cynology, cynosure

cyst-

capsule

Greek

(kustis)

cystic

cyt-

cell

Greek

(kutos)

cnidocyte, cytoplasm

D
Root

Meaning in English

Origin
language

Etymology (root origin)

English examples

dactyl-

finger, toe, digit

Greek

(daktulos)

dactylology, pterodactyl

damn-, -demn-

to inflict loss upon

Latin

damnre

condemn, damnation, indemnify

de-

from, away from,

removing, down

Latin

deletion, dementia, descend

deb-

owe

Latin

debere, debitus

debit

deca-, dec-,
deka-, dek-

ten

Greek

deka, ten

decagram, decahedron, decameter

decim-

tenth part

Latin

decimus, tenth; from decem, ten

decimal, decimate

delt-

anything shaped like a

Greek

(delta)

deltoid

dem-

people

Greek

(dmos)

demagogue, democracy

den-

ten each

Latin

deni

denarius, denary

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

dendr-

resembling a tree

Greek

(dendron): akin to
, drys, "tree"

dendrite, dendrochronology

dens-

thick

Latin

densus

condense, density

dent-

tooth

Latin

dens, dentis

dental, dentifrice, dentures

derm-

skin

Greek

(derma)

dermis, epidermis, hypodermic

deuter-

second

Greek

(deuteros)

Deuteronomy, deuterostome

dexter-

right

Latin

dexter

dexterity, dextrose

dexi-

right

Greek

(deksios)

Dexiarchia

di-

two

Greek

dicot, diode, dipole

dia-

apart, through

Greek

(dia)

dialysis, diameter, diagram

dict-

say, speak

Latin

dicere, dictus

contradict, dictate, dictation, dictionary, edict,

predict

digit-

finger

Latin

digitus

digital

dino-

terrible, fearfully great

Greek

(deinos)

dinosaur

dipl-

double; twofold

Greek

(diplos)

diploid, diplosis

doc-, doct-

teach

Latin

docere, doctus

docile, doctor, indoctrinate

dodec-

twelve

Greek

(dodeka)

dodecasyllabic

dogmat-, dox-

opinion, tenet

Greek

dogmatic, orthodox

dom-

house

Latin

domus

dome

don-

give

Latin

donare

condone, donation

dorm-

sleep

Latin

dormire

dormant, dormitory

dors-

back

Latin

dorsum

dorsal

du-

two

Latin

duo

dual

dub-

doubtful

Latin

dubius

dubious

duc-, duct-

lead

Latin

dux, ducis

abduction, conductor, introduction, production,

reduction, deduction

dulc-

sweet

Latin

dulcis

dulcet, dulcimer

dur-

hard

Latin

durus

durable, duration, duress, endure, obdurate

dy-

two

Greek

(duo)

dyad

dyna-

power

Greek

(dunamai)

dynamism, dynasty, dynamite

dys-

badly, ill

Greek

- (dus-)

dysentery, dysplasia, dystrophy

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

Root

Meaning in English

Origin
language

Etymology (root origin)

English examples

ec-

out

Greek

(ek)

eccentric

ecclesi-

assembly,
congregation

Greek

(ekklsi) from (ekkale) "I

summon" or "I call out"

Ecclesiastes, ecclesiastical

eco-

house

Greek

(oikos)

ecology, economics,
ecumenism

ecto-

outside

Greek

(ektos)

ectoderm

ed-, es-

eat

Latin

edere, esus

edible, obesity

eg-

goat

Greek

, (aix)

egophony

ego-

self, I (first person)

Latin, Greek

ego,

egocentric

electr-

amber

Greek

(elektron)

electron, electricity

em-, empt-

buy

Latin

emere, emptus

exemption, preempt, redeem

eme-

vomit

Greek

, (emetos)

emesis, emetic

emul-

striving to equal,
rivaling

Latin

aemulus, aemulare

emulator

en-, em-

in

Greek

(en)

emphasis

encephalo-

brain

Greek

(enkephalos)

encephalopathy

endo-

inside

Greek

(endon)

endocrine, endocytosis

engy-

narrow

Greek

(engys)

Engystomops

ennea-

nine

Greek

(ennea)

ennead, enneagon, enneode

ens-

sword

Latin

ensis

ensiform

eo-, eos-,
eoso-

dawn, east

Greek

Eocene

ep-, epi-

upon

Greek

(epi)

epicenter, epistemic, epitaph,

epoch

equ-, -iqu-

even, level

Latin

aequus

equal, equivalence

equ-

horse

Latin

equus

equestrian

erg-

work

Greek

(ergon)

ergonomics

erot-

(sexual) love

Greek

, (ers, ertos)

erogenous, erotic

err-

stray

Latin

errare

aberration, errant, error

erythr-

red

Greek

(eruthros)

erythrocyte

eso-

within

Greek

(es)

esoteric

eth-

custom, habit

Greek

(thos)

ethology

ethm-

sieve, sift

Greek

(thmos); (hethein)

ethmoid

ethn-

people, race, tribe,

nation

Greek

(ethnos)

ethnarch, ethnic

etym-

true

Greek

(etumos)

etymology

eu-

well, good

Greek

(eu)

euphoria, euthanasia

eur-

wide

Greek

(eurus)

Europe, eurypterid

ex-, e-, ef-

from, out

Latin

ex

exclude, extend, extrude

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

exo-

outside

10

Greek

(eks)

exoskeleton, exothermic

exter-, extra- outer

Latin

exterus

exterior

extrem-

Latin

extremus

extremity, extremophile

outermost, utmost

F
Root

Meaning in English

Origin
language

Etymology (root
origin)

English examples

f-, fat-

say, speak

Latin

fari, fatus

fate, infant, preface

fab-

bean

Latin

faba

faba bean

fac-, -fic-, fact, -fect-

make

Latin

facere, factus

defect, factory, manufacture

falc-

sickle

Latin

falx, falcis

falciform

fall-, -fell-, fals-

deceive

Latin

fallere, falsus

falsity, infallibility

fallac-

false

Latin

fallax, fallacis

fallacy

famili-

a close attendant

Latin

famulus

familiarity

fant-

to show

Greek

(phantaz)

fantasy

fasc-

bundle

Latin

fascis

fasciculation, fascism

fatu-

foolish, useless

Latin

fatuus

fatuous, infatuation

feder-

treaty, agreement, contract,

league, pact

Latin

foedus, foederis

confederation, federal

fel-

cat

Latin

feles, felis

Felinae, feline

felic-

happy, merry

Latin

felix, felicis

felicity

fell-

suck

Latin

fellare

fellation

femin-

women, female

Latin

femina

femininity

femor-

thigh

Latin

femur, femoris

femoral

fend-, fens-

strike

Latin

fendere, -fensus

defend, offense

fenestr-

window

Latin

fenestra

defenestration

fer-

carry

Latin

ferre

reference, transfer

feroc-

fierce

Latin

ferox, ferocis

ferocity

ferr-

iron

Latin

ferrum

ferrous

fet-

stink

Latin

fetere

fetid, fetor

fic-

fig

Latin

ficus

Ficus

fid-, fis-

faith, trust

Latin

fides, fidere, fisus

confidence, fidelity

fil-

thread

Latin

filum

filament

fili-

son

Latin

filius

affiliation

fin-

end

Latin

finis

final, finish

find-, fiss-

split

Latin

findere, fissus

fission, fissures

firm-

firm, strong

Latin

firmus, firmare

confirmation, firmament

fistul-

hollow, tube

Latin

fistula

fistula

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

11

fl-

blow

Latin

flare, flatus

flatulence, inflation, insufflation

flacc-

flabby

Latin

flaccus, flaccere

flaccid

flav-

yellow

Latin

flavus

flavonoid

flect-, flex-

bend

Latin

flectere, flexus

flexible, flexile, flexor, inflection

flig-, flict-

strike

Latin

fligere, flictus

conflict, inflict

flor-

flower

Latin

flos, floris

floral, florid

flu-, flux-

flow

Latin

fluere, fluxus

effluent, fluency, influx

foc-

hearth

Latin

focus

focal

fod-, foss-

dig

Latin

fodere, fossus

fossil

foen-

hay

Latin

foenum

Foeniculum

foli-

leaf

Latin

folium

defoliant

font-

spring

Latin

fons, fontis

font, fontal, fontanelle

for-

bore, drill

Latin

forare, foratus

foralite, foramen, foraminifer, perforation

form-

shape

Latin

forma

conformity, deformity, formation, reformatory

form-

ant

Latin

formica

formic acid, formaldehyde

fornic-

vault

Latin

fornix, fornicis

fornication

fort-

strong

Latin

fortis

fortification

fove-

shallow round depression

Latin

fovea

fovea

frang-, -fring-,
fract-, frag-

break

Latin

frangere, fractus

fracture, fragment, frangible, infringe

frater-, fratr-

brother

Latin

frater

fraternity

fric-, frict-

rub

Latin

fricare, frictus

dentifrice, friction

frig-

cold

Latin

frigere

frigid, frigorific

front-

forehead

Latin

frons, frontis

confront, frontage, frontal

fruct-, frug-

fruit

Latin

frux, fructis

fructose

fug-, fugit-

flee

Latin

fugere

centrifuge, fugitive, refuge

fum-

smoke

Latin

fumus

fume, fumigation

fund-

bottom

Latin

fundus, fundare

fundamentalism, profundity

fund-, fus-

pour

Latin

fundere, fusus

diffusion, effusion, effusive, fusion, profuse,

profusion, transfusion

fung-, funct-

do

Latin

fungi, functus

function, fungibility

fur-, furt-

steal

Latin

fur, furare

furtive

furc-

fork

Latin

furca

bifurcation

fusc-

dark

Latin

fuscus

obfuscation

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

12

G
Root

Meaning in English Origin language

Etymology (root origin)

English examples

galact-

milk

Greek

, (gala, galaktos) galactic

gastr-

stomach

Greek

(gastr)

gastric, gastroenterology

ge-

earth

Greek

(g), - (ge-)

geography, geology, geometry

gel-

icy cold

Latin

gelum

gelatin, gelid

gen-

race, kind

Greek

(genos)

eugenics, genocide

ger-, gest-

bear, carry

Latin

gerere, gestus

digest, gestation

germin-

sprout

Latin

germen, germinis

germination

glabr-

hairless

Latin

glaber

glabrous

glaci-

ice

Latin

glacies

glacier

gladi-

sword

Latin

gladius

gladiator

glia-

glue

Greek

(glia)

glial

glob-

sphere

Latin

globus

global, globule

glori-

glory

Latin

gloria

glorify

glutin-

glue

Latin

gluten, glutinis

agglutination

gnosc-

to know

Latin

gon-

corner, angle

Greek

(gna)

goniometer, polygon

grad-, -gred-, gress- walk, step, go

Latin

gradus, gradere, gressus

grade, regress

gramm-

writing

Greek

(gramma)

grammar, grammatic

gran-

grain

Latin

granum

granary, granite, granola, granule

grand-

grand

Latin

grandis

grandiloquous, grandiosity

graph-

draw, write

Greek

(graph)

grapheme, graphic, graphology

grat-

thank, please

Latin

gratus

grace, gratitude, ingrate

grav-

heavy

Latin

gravis

aggravation, grave, gravity

greg-

flock

Latin

grex, gregis

egregious, gregarious, segregation

gubern-

govern, pilot

Latin

gubernare

gubernatorial

gust-

taste

Latin

gustus

disgust, gusto

gutt-

drop

Latin

gutta

gutta, guttifer, guttiform

guttur-

throat

Latin

guttur

guttural

gymn-

nude

Greek

(gumnos)

gymnasium, gymnastics, gymnosperm

gyn-

woman

Greek

(gun)

gynecology

cognoscenti

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

13

H
Root

Meaning in
English

Origin
language

Etymology (root
origin)

English examples

hab-, -hib-, habit-,

-hibit-

have

Latin

habere, habitus

habit, prohibition

hadr-

thick

Greek

(hadros)

hadrocodium, hadron

haem-, hem-

blood

Greek

(haima)

haemophilia, hemoglobin

hal-

salt

Greek

, (hals, halos)

halite, halogen

hal-, -hel-

breathe

Latin

halare, halatus

anhelation, inhale, halitosis

hapl-

simple, single

Greek

(haplous)

haploid, haplotype

haur-, haust-

draw

Latin

haurire, haustus

exhaustion

hedo-

pleasure

Greek

(hdon)

hedonism

heli-

sun

Greek

(hlios)

heliocentric, heliotrope, helium

hemi-

half

Greek

(hmisus)

hemicycle, hemisphere

hen-

one

Greek

(hen)

henad, hyphen

hendec-

eleven

Greek

(hendeka)

hendecagon

hept-

seven

Greek

(hepta)

heptagon, heptathlon, heptode

her-, hes-

cling

Latin

haerere, haesus

adhesive, coherent

herb-

grass

Latin

herba

herbal, herbicide

hered-

heir

Latin

heres, heredis

heredity

herp-

creep

Greek

, (herp,
herpein)

herpes, herpetology

heter-

different, other

Greek

(heteros)

heterochromatin, heterodoxy, heterogenous

heur-

find

Greek

(heurisk)

heuristic

hex-

six

Greek

(hex)

hexagon, hexahedron, hexode

hibern-

wintry

Latin

hibernus

hibernation

hiem-

winter

Latin

hiems

hiemal

hier-

sacred

Greek

(hieros)

hierarchy, hieroglyphics

hipp-

horse

Greek

(hippos)

hippodrome, hippopotamus

hirsut-

hairy

Latin

hirtus, hirsutus

hirsute

hispid-

bristly

Latin

hispidus

hispidity, hispidulous

histri-

actor

Latin

histrio, histrionis

histrionic

hod-

way

Greek

(hodos)

cathode, herpolhode, hodometer

hol-

whole

Greek

(holos)

holistic, holography

hom-

same

Greek

(homos)

homophone, homozygous

homal-

even, flat

Greek

(homalos)

anomalous

home-

like

Greek

(homoios)

homeostasis

homin-

human

Latin

homo, hominis

hominid

honor-

esteem

Latin

honos, honoris

honorable, honorarium

hor-

boundary

Greek

(horos)

aphorism, horizon

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

14

hor-

hour

Greek

(hra)

horoscope

horm-

that which
excites

Greek

(horm)

hormone

hort-

garden

Latin

hortus, horti

horticulture

hospit-

host

Latin

hospes, hospitis

hospice, hospital, hospitality, inhospitable

host-

enemy

Latin

hostis

hostile

hum-

ground

Latin

humus, humare

exhumation, inhume

hyal-

glass

Greek

(hualos)

hyaline, hyaloid

hydr-

water

Greek

(hudr)

hydraulics, hydrology, hydrolysis, hydrophily, hydrophobia,

hydroponic, hydrous

hygr-

wet

Greek

(hugros)

hygrometer

hymen-

skin or
membrane

Greek

(humn)

hymen, Hymenoptera

hyo-

U-shaped

Greek

(huoeids)

hyoid

hyp-

under

Greek

(hupo)

hypothermia

hyper-

above, over

Greek

(huper)

hyperbole, hypertonic

hypn-

sleep

Greek

(hupnos)

hypnosis

hyster-

later

Greek

(husteros)

hysteresis

I
Root

Meaning in English

Origin language

Etymology (root origin)

English examples

ichthy-

fish

Greek

(ichthus)

ichthyology

icos-

twenty

Greek

(eikosi)

icosagon, icosahedron

id-

shape

Greek

(eidos)

idol

ide-

idea; thought

Greek

(ideal)

ideogram, ideology

idi-

personal

Greek

(idios)

idiom, idiosyncrasy, idiot

ign-

fire

Latin

ignis

igneous, ignition

in- (1), im-

in, on

Latin

in

import, incur, intend, invite

in- (2), il-, im-, ir-

not, un- (negation)

Latin

in-

illicit, impossible, inimical, irrational

infra-

below, under

Latin

infra

infrastructure

insul-

island

Latin

insula

insular, insulation

inter-

among, between

Latin

inter (preposition)

intercollegiate, intermission, intersection

intra-

within

Latin

intra

intramural

irasc-, irat-

be angry

Latin

irasci

irascible, irate

irid-

rainbow

Latin

iris

iridescent

is-, iso-

equal, same

Greek

(isos)

isometric, isomorphic, isotropic

iter-

again

Latin

iterum, iterare

iteration

itiner-

journey

Latin

iter, itineris

itinerary

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

15

J
Root

Meaning in English

Origin language

Etymology (root origin)

English examples

jac-

lie

Latin

jacre "to be thrown"

adjacent

jac-, -ject-

cast, throw

Latin

iacere, iectus

ejaculate, eject, reject, interject, trajectory

janu-

door

Latin

janua

janitor

joc-

joke

Latin

jocus

jocularity

judic-

judge

Latin

iudex, iudicis

adjudicate, judicial, judiciary

jug-

yoke

Latin

jugare, jugum

conjugal, subjugate

jung-, junct-

join

Latin

jungere, junctus

conjunction, juncture

junior-

younger

Latin

junior

juniority

jus-, jur-

law, justice

Latin

ius, iuris

jury, justice

juv-, jut-

help

Latin

juvare, jutus

adjutant

juven-

young, youth

Latin

juvenis

juvenile, rejuvenate

juxta-

beside, near

Latin

juxta

juxtaposition

K
Root

Meaning in English

Origin language

Etymology (root origin)

English examples

kil(o)-

thousand

Greek

(chilioi)

kilobyte, kilogram, kilometer

kine-

movement, motion

Greek

(kine)

kinesthetic, kinetic, telekinesis

klept-

steal

Greek

(klepts)

kleptomania, kleptoplasty

kudo-

glory

Greek

(kudos)

kudos

L
Root

Meaning in English

Origin language

Etymology (root origin)

English examples

lab-, laps-

slide, slip

Latin

labi, lapsus

elapse, relapse

labi-

lip

Latin

labia, labiae

bilabial, labial

labor-

work

Latin

labor

collaboration, elaboration

lacer-

tear

Latin

lacer

laceration

lacrim-

cry, tears

Latin

lacrima

lacrimal, lacrimous

lact-

milk

Latin

lac, lactis, lactare

lactate, lactation, lactose

lamin-

layer, slice

Latin

lamina

laminate, lamination

lamp-

torch

Greek

(lampas)

lamp

lapid-

stone

Latin

lapis, lapidis

lapidary

larg-

large

Latin

largus

enlargement

larv-

ghost, mask

Latin

larva

larva, larvae, larval

lat-

broad, wide

Latin

latus

latitude

later-

side

Latin

latus, lateris

bilateral

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

16

laud-, laus-

praise

Latin

laudere

laud, laudanum

lav-

wash

Latin

lavare

lavatory

lax-

not tense

Latin

laxus, laxare

laxative, relaxation

lecith-

egg yolk

Greek

(lekithos)

lecithin

led-, les-

hurt

Latin

laedere, laesus

lesion

leg-

law

Latin

lex, legis, legare

legal, legislative

leg-

send

Latin

legare

relegate

lei-

smooth

Greek

(leios)

leiomyoma

lekan-

dish, pot

Greek

(lekan)

lekane

leni-

gentle

Latin

lenis, lenire

leniency

leon-

lion

Latin

leo, leonis

Leo, leonine, Leopold

lep-

flake, scale

Greek

, , (lepis, lepidos) Lepidoptera

lepsi-

grasp, seize

Greek

(lpsis)

epilepsy

leuc-, leuk-

white

Greek

(leukos)

leucocyte

lev-

lift, light

Latin

levis "light" (in weight), levare

elevator, levitation

liber-

free

Latin

liber, liberare

liberation, liberty

libr-

book

Latin

liber, libri

librarian, library

lig-

bind

Latin

ligare, ligatus

ligament, ligature

limac-

slug

Latin

limax, limacis

limacoid, limacon

line-

line

Latin

linea

line, linearity

lingu-

language, tongue

Latin

lingua

bilingual, linguistic

linqu-, lict-

leave

Latin

linquere, lictus

relict, relinquish

lip-

fat

Greek

(lipos)

lipolysis

liter-

letter

Latin

littera

alliteration, illiterate, literacy, literal, obliterate

lith-

stone

Greek

(lithos)

lithosphere, megalith, monolith, Neolithic Era

loc-

place

Latin

locus

local, location

log-

thought, word, speech Greek

(logos)

logic, monologue, morphological, philology

long-

long

Latin

longus

elongate, longitude

loqu-, locut- speak

Latin

loqui

allocution, eloquence

luc-

bright, light

Latin

lux, lucis

Lucifer (bearer of light)

lud-, lus-

play

Latin

ludere, lusus

allude, illusion

lumin-

light

Latin

lumen, luminis

illumination, luminous

lun-

moon

Latin

luna

lunar, lunatic

lysi-, lyti-

dissolving

Greek

(lusis)

analysis, analytic, cytolysis, hydrolysis, lysigeny

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

17

M
Root

Meaning in English

Origin
language

Etymology (root
origin)

English examples

macr-

long

Greek

(makros)

macron

magn-

great, large

Latin

magnus

magnanimous, magnificent, magnitude

maj-

greater

Latin

major, majus

majesty, majority, majuscule

mal-

bad, wretched

Latin

malus

malfeasance, malicious, malignancy, malodorous

mamm-

breast

Latin

mamma

mammal, mammary gland

man-

flow

Latin

mnre, manatus

emanate, emanationism, immanant, immanation

man-

stay

Latin

manre, mansus

immanence, immanent, manse, permanence, permanent,

remanence, remanent

mand-

order

Latin

mandre, mandatus

mandate, remand

mania

mental illness

Greek

(man)

kleptomania, maniac

manu-

hand

Latin

manus

manual, manuscript, manufacture

mar-

sea

Latin

mare, maris

marine, maritime

mater-,
matr-

mother

Latin

mater, matris

maternity, matriarch, matrix

maxim-

greatest

Latin

maximus

maximum

mechan-

machine or
instrument

Greek

(mkhan)

mechane, mechanics

medi-,
-midi-

middle

Latin

medius, mediare

median, medieval

meg-

great, large

Greek

(megas)

megaphone

mei-

less

Greek

(mein)

meiosis

melan-

black, dark

Greek

(melas)

Melanesia, melanoma

melior-

better

Latin

melior

amelioration

mell-

honey

Latin

mel, mellis

mellifluous

memor-

remember

Latin

memor

memorial

mening-

membrane

Greek

(meninx)

meningitis

men-

month

Greek

(mn)

menopause

menstru-

monthly

Latin

menstruus

menstrual, menstruation

mensur-

measure

Latin

mensura

commensurate

ment-

mind

Latin

mens, mentis

demented, mentality

mer-

part

Greek

(meros)

polymer

merc-

reward, wages, hire

Latin

merx, mercis

mercantile, mercenary, merchant

merg-,
mers-

dip, plunge

Latin

mergere

emerge, immersion

mes-

middle

Greek

(mesos)

mesolithic, mesozoic

meter-,
metr-

measure

Greek

(metron)

metric, thermometer

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

18

meta-

above, among,
beyond

Greek

(meta)

metaphor, metaphysics

mic-

grain

Latin

mica

micelle

micr-

small

Greek

(mikros)

microphone, microscope

migr-

wander

Latin

migrare

emigrant, migrate

milit-

soldier

Latin

miles, militis

military, militia

mill-

thousand

Latin

mille

millennium, million

millen-

thousand each

Latin

milleni

millenary

mim-

repeat

Greek

(mimos)

mime, mimic

min-

jut

Latin

minere

prominent

min-

less, smaller

Latin

minor, minus

minority, minuscule, minutiae

mir-

wonder, amazement

Latin

miror, mirari, miratus

sum

admire, miracle, mirror

mis-

hate

Greek

(misos)

misandry, misogyny

misc-, mixt-

mix

Latin

miscere, mixtus

miscellaneous, mixture

mit-

thread

Greek

(mitos)

mitochondrion, mitosis

mitt-, miss-

send

Latin

mittere, missus

intermittent, missionary, transmission

mne-

memory

Greek

(mnm)

amnesia, mnemonic

mol-

grind

Latin

mola, molere, molitus

molar

moll-

soft

Latin

mollis

emollient, mollify

mon-

one

Greek

(monos)

monism, monolith, monotone

monil-

string of beads

Latin

monile

Moniliformida

mont-

mountain

Latin

mons, montis

Montana

mord-

bite

Latin

mordere, morsus

mordacious, morsel, remorse

morph-

form, shape

Greek

(morph)

anthropomorphism, morpheme, morphology

mort-

death

Latin

mors, mortis

immortal, mortality, mortuary

mov-, mot-

move, motion

Latin

movere, motus

mobile, momentum, motor, move

mulg-, muls- milk

Latin

mulgere

emulsion

mult-

many, much

Latin

multus

multiple, multiplex, multitude

mur-

wall

Latin

murus, muri

immured, mural

mus-

thief

Latin

mus, muris

mouse

musc-

fly

Latin

musca, muscae

Muscicapidae, Muscidae

mut-

change

Latin

mutare

mutation

my-

mouse

Greek

(mus)

musophobia

myri-

countless, ten
thousand

Greek

(murios)

myriad, myriapod

myrmec-

ant

Greek

(murmx)

myrmecoid, Myrmidons

myth-

story

Greek

(muthos)

mythic, mythology

myx-

slime

Greek

(muxa)

Myxini

myz-

suck

Greek

(muza)

Myzopoda

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

19

N
Root

Meaning in English

Origin language

Etymology (root origin)

English examples

nar-

nostril

Latin

naris

naris

narc-

numb

Greek

(nark)

narcosis, narcotic

narr-

tell

Latin

narrare

narrative

nas-

nose

Latin

nasus

nasal

nasc-, nat-

born

Latin

nascere, natus

nascent, native

naut-

ship

Greek

(nautes)

Argonaut, astronaut

nav-

ship

Latin

navis

naval

ne-

new

Greek

(neos)

neologism

necr-

dead

Greek

(nekros)

necrophobia

nect-

swimming

Greek

(nktos)

nectopod

nect-, nex-

join, tie

Latin

nectere, nexus

connect, nexus

neg-

say no

Latin

negare

negative

nema-

hair

Greek

(nma)

nematode

nemor-

grove, woods

Latin

nemus, nemoris

nemoral

nephr-

kidney

Greek

(nephros)

nephritis

nes-

island

Greek

(nsos)

Polynesia

neur-

nerve

Greek

(neurn)

neurology, neurosurgeon

nict-

wink

Latin

nictari

nictation

nigr-

black

Latin

niger

denigrate

nihil-

nothing

Latin

nihilum

annihilation

noct-

night

Latin

nox, noctis

noctambulist, nocturnal

nod-

knot

Latin

nodus

node, nodule

nom-

arrangement, law

Greek

(nomos)

autonomous, taxonomy

nomad-

those who let pasture herds Greek

, (nomas, nomados) nomadic

nomin-

name

Latin

nomen, nominis

nomination

non-

not

Latin

non

none

non-

ninth

Latin

nonus

nonary

nonagen-

ninety each

Latin

nonageni

nonagenary

nonagesim- ninetieth

Latin

nonagesimus

nonagesimal

not-

letter, note, paper

Latin

notare

annotation, notable

noth-

spurious

Greek

(nothos)

nothogenus

noto-

back, south

Greek

(notos)

notochord

nov-

nine

Latin

novem

November, novennial

nov-

new

Latin

novus

innovation, nova

noven-

nine each

Latin

noveni

novenary

novendec-

nineteen

Latin

novendecim

novemdecillion

nox-, noc-

harmful

Latin

noxa

noxious

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

20

nu-

nod

Latin

nuere

innuendo

nub-

to marry, to wed

Latin

nubes, nubis, nubere

connubial, nubile

nuc-

nut

Latin

nux, nucis

nucleus

nuch-

back of neck

Latin

nucha

nuchal cord

nud-

naked

Latin

nudus

denude, nudity

null-

none

Latin

nullus

nullify

numer-

number

Latin

numerus

numeral

nunci-

announce

Latin

nuntius

pronunciation

nupti-

pertaining to marriage

Latin

nuptialis

nuptial

nutri-

nourish

Latin

nutrire

nutrient

O
Root

Meaning in
English

Origin
language

Etymology (root origin)

English examples

ob-, o-, oc-, of-, og-,

op-, os-

against

Latin

ob

obstinate, obstreperous, occur, offend, omit, oppose,

ostentatious

oct-

eight

Greek

(okt)

octagon, octahedron, octode

oct-

eight

Latin

oct

octangular, octennial, octovir

octav-

eighth

Latin

octvus

octaval

octogen-

eighty each

Latin

octogeni

octogenary

octogesim-

eightieth

Latin

octogesimus

octogesimal

octon-

eight each

Latin

octoni

octonary

ocul-

eye

Latin

oculus, oculare

ocular, oculus, ullage

od-

path, way

Greek

(hodos)

anode, diode, odometer, pentode, tetrode, triode

od-

hate

Latin

odium

odious

odont-

tooth

Greek

, (odous,
odontos)

odontology

odor-

fragrant

Latin

odor

odorous

oeco-

house

Greek

(oikos)

ecology

oed-

swollen

Greek

(oidma)

oedema

oen-

wine

Greek

(oinos)

oenology

oesophag-

gullet

Greek

(oisophagos)

oesophagus

ogdo-

eighth

Greek

(ogdoos)

ogdoad

-oid

like

Greek

- (-oeids)

asteroid, mucoid, organoid

ole-

oil

Latin

oleum

oleosity

olecran-

skull of elbow

Latin from
Greek

(lekranon)

olecranon

olig-

few

Greek

(oligos)

oligarchy

oliv-

olive

Latin

oliva

olivaceous, olivary, olivette

-oma

cancer

Greek

melanoma

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

21

omas-

paunch

Latin

omasum

omasum

oment-

fat skin

Latin

omentum

omental

omin-

creepy

Latin

omen, ominis

abominable, ominous

omm-

eye

Greek

(omma)

ommatidium

omni-

all

Latin

omnis

omnipotence, omnivore

omo-

shoulder

Greek

omos

omohyoid

omphal-

navel

Greek

(omphalos)

omphalectomy

oner-

burden

Latin

onus, oneris

exonerate, onerous

onom-

name

Greek

(onoma)

onomatopoeia

ont-

existing

Greek

(ontos)

ontogeny, ontology

-onym

name

Greek

(onuma)

antonym, pseudonym, synonym

oo-

egg

Greek

(oion)

oocyte

opac-

shady

Latin

opacus

opacity

oper-

work

Latin

opus, operis

inoperable, opera

opercul-

little cover

Latin

operculum

operculum

ophi-

snake

Greek

(ophis)

ophiophagy

ophthalm-

eye

Greek

(ophthalmos)

ophthalmology

opisth-

behind

Greek

(opisthen)

opisthosoma, opsimath

opoter-

either

Greek

(hopoteros)

opt-

eye

Greek

(optos)

optical

opt-

choose

Latin

optare

adopt, optional

optim-

best

Latin

optimus

optimum

or-

mouth

Latin

os, oris

oral, orator

orb-

circle

Latin

orbis

orbit

orch-

testicle

Greek

(orchis)

orchid

ordin-

order

Latin

rd, ordinis

ordinal, ordinary

organ-

organ, instrument,
tool

Greek

(organon)

organism

ori-, ort-

eastern

Latin

oriri, ortus

orient

orn-

decorate

Latin

rnre

adorn, ornament, ornate

ornith-

bird

Greek

(ornis, ornithos)

ornithology

orth-

straight

Greek

(orthos)

orthodontist, orthodoxy, orthosis

oscill-

swing

Latin

oscillum

oscillation

oss-

bone

Latin

os, ossis

ossification

osteo-

bone

Greek

(ostoun)

osteoporosis

osti-

entrance

Latin

ostium

ostiole

ostrac-

shell

Greek

(ostrakon)

ostracism

ot-

ear

Greek

, (ous, tos)

otology

ov-

egg

Latin

ovum

oval, ovary, ovule

ovi-

sheep

Latin

ovis

ovine

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

oxy-

sharp, pointed

22
Greek

(oxus)

oxygen, oxymoron

P
Root

Meaning in English

Origin
language

Etymology (root origin)

English examples

pac-

peace

Latin

pax, pacis

pacifism

pach-

thick

Greek

(pachus)

pachydermata, Pachypodium

paed-

child

Greek

, (pais, paidos)

paediatric

pagin-

page

Latin

pagina

pagination

pal-

stake

Latin

palus

impalement, pale

palae-, pale-

ancient, old

Greek

(palaios)

paleontology

palin-

back

Greek

(palin)

palindrome

pall-

be pale

Latin

pallere

pallid, pallor

palli-

cloak

Latin

pallium

pallium

palm-

palm

Latin

palma

palmate

palustr-

in marshes

Latin

paluster

palustral

pan-, pam-

all

Greek

, (pas, pantos)

pandemic

pand-, pans-

spread

Latin

pandere, pansus

expand, expansion

par(a)-

beside, near

Greek

(para)

parallel, parameter

pariet-

wall

Latin

paries, parietis

parietal

part-

part

Latin

pars, partis

bipartite, partition

parthen-

maiden

Greek

(parthenos)

Parthenon, parthenogenesis

parv-

little

Latin

parvus

parvovirus

pasc-, past-

feed

Latin

pascere, pastus

pasture, repast

pass-

pace, step

Latin

passus

passer-

sparrow

Latin

passer

passeriform, passerine

pat-

be open

Latin

patere

patent

path-

feel, hurt

Greek

(pathos)

pathetic, pathology

pati-, pass-

suffer, feel, endure, permit

Latin

pati, passus

passive, patience

patr-

father

Greek

, (patr, patria)

patriarch

patr-

father

Latin

pater, patris

patrilocal

pauc-

few

Latin

paucus

paucal, pauciloquent, paucity

Latin

pavire

pavement

pavpecc-

sin

Latin

peccare

impeccable

pect-

fixed

Greek

(pktos)

pectic, pectin

pector-

chest

Latin

pectus, pectoris

pectoral

pecun-

money

Latin

pecunia

pecuniary

ped-

child

Greek

, (pais, paidos)

pedagogy

ped-

foot

Latin

pes, pedis

pedal, quadruped

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

23

pejor-

worse

Latin

pejor

pejorative

pell-, puls-

drive

Latin

pellere, pulsus

propellent, propulsor, repellent

pen-

almost

Latin

paene

peninsula, penultimate, penumbra

pend-, pens-

hang

Latin

pendere

suspend

penn-, pinn-

feather

Latin

penna

pennate, pinnate

pent-

five

Greek

(pente)

pentagon, pentode, pentagrid

pentecost-

fiftieth

Greek

(pentkostos)

pentecostalism

pept-

to digest

Greek

, (pessein,
peptos)

peptic, peptide

per-

thoroughly, through

Latin

per

perfection, permeate, persistence, pervade

peran-

across, beyond

Greek

(peran)

Perates

peri-

around

Greek

(peri)

perigee, perihelion, perimeter, peripheral,

periscope

persic-

peach

Greek

(persikos)

pessim-

worst

Latin

pessimus

pessimal

pet-

strive towards

Latin

petere

appetite, competition

petr-

rock

Greek

(petra)

petroglyph

phae-

dark

Greek

(phaios)

phaeomelanin, pheochrome

phag-

eat

Greek

(phagein)

phagocyte, sarcophagus

phalang-

close formation of troops,

finger bones

Greek

, (phalanx,
phalangos)

phalanges

phalar-

having a patch of white

Greek

(phalros)

phalarope

pharmac-

drug, medicine

Greek

(pharmakon)

pharmacy

phaner-

visible

Greek

(phaneros)

phanerozoic

pher-

bear, carry

Greek

(pher)

pheromone

phil-, -phile

love, friendship

Greek

(phile, philia)

hydrophile, philosophy

phleg-

heat

Greek

(phleg)

phlegm, phlegmatic

phloe-

tree bark

Greek

(phloios)

phlobaphene, phloem

phob-

fear

Greek

(phobos)

hydrophobia

phon-

sound

Greek

(phn)

homophone, microphone, phonograph

phor-

carry, bear

Greek

(phoros)

metaphor

phos-, phot-

light

Greek

, (phs, phtos)

phosphor, photograph

phragm-

fence

Greek

(phragma)

diaphragm

phren-

diaphragm, mind

Greek

, (phrn,
phrenos)

phrenetic, schizophrenia

phryn-

toad, toad-like

Greek

(phrun)

Phrynobatrachus

phyl-

tribe

Greek

(phulon)

phylogenetics, phylum

phyll-

leaf

Greek

(phullon)

chlorophyll, phyllotaxis

physi-

nature

Greek

(phusis)

physics

physalid-

bladder

Greek

() (phusal(l)is)

physalis

[1]

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

24

phyt-

plant

Greek

(phuton)

pic-

pitch

Latin

pix, picis

pil-

hair

Latin

pilus

depilatory, epilator

pin-

drink

Greek

(pinein)

pinocytosis

pin-

pine

Latin

pinus

pineal gland

ping-, pict-

paint

Latin

pingere, pictus

depiction, picture

pingu-

fat

Latin

pinguis

Pinguicula

pir-

pear

Latin

pirus

piriformis muscle

pisc-

fish

Latin

piscis

Pisces, piscivore

pis-

pea

Greek

(pisos)

plac-

plate, tablet

Greek

, (plax, plakos)

plac-

calm

Latin

placare, placatus

placate, placid

plac-, -plic-

please

Latin

placre, placitus

placebo

plagi-

oblique

Greek

(plagios)

plagiocephaly, plagioclase

plan-

flat

Latin

planus

explanation, planar, plane

Latin

plangere, planctus

plangent

plang-, planct-

neophyte, phytoplankton

plas-

mould

Greek

(plath)

plasma, plastic

platy-

flat, broad

Greek

(platus)

platypus

plaud-, -plod-,
plaus-, -plos-

approve, clap

Latin

plaudere, plausus

applaud, applause, explosion, implode,

plaudits, plausible

ple-, plet-

fill

Latin

plere

complement, suppletion

pleb-

people

Latin

plebs, plebis

plebeian, plebs

plec-

interwoven

Greek

(plek)

plectics, symplectomorphism

plect-, plex-

plait

Latin

plectere, plexus

perplex

plen-

full

Latin

plenus

plenary

plesi-

near

Greek

(plsios)

plesiosaur

pleth-

full

Greek

(plthos)

plethora

pleur-

side

Greek

(pleura)

pleuritis

plic-

fold

Latin

plicare, plicatus

duplication, replicate

plinth-

brick

Greek

(plinthos)

Plinthograptis

Latin

plorare

implore

plorplu-

rain

Latin

pluere

plum-

feather

Latin

pluma

plumage, plumate

plumb-

lead

Latin

plumbum

plumber

plur-

more

Latin

plus, pluris

plural, surplus

plurim-

most

Latin

plurimus

plurimal

plut-

wealth

Greek

(ploutos)

plutocracy

pluvi-

rain

Latin

pluvia

pluvial

pneu-

air, breath, lung

Greek

pnein, (pneuma)

apnoea, pneumatic

pod-

foot

Greek

, (pous, podos)

podiatry, tripod

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

25

pogon-

beard

Greek

, (pgn,
pgnos)

pogonotrophy

poie-

make

Greek

(poie)

poiesis

pol-

pole

Greek

(polos)

dipole, polar

pole-, poli-

city

Greek

(polis)

metropolis, politics

polem-

war

Greek

(polemos)

polemic

poli-

grey

Greek

(polios)

poliomyelitis

pollic-

thumb

Latin

pollex, pollicis

pollicate

pollin-

fine flour

Latin

pollen, pollinis

pollination

poly-

many

Greek

(polus)

polygon

pon-, posit-

put

Latin

ponere, positus

component, position, postpone

ponder-

weight

Latin

pondus, ponderis

preponderance

pont-

bridge

Latin

pons, pontis

pontoon

popul-

people

Latin

populus, populare

population

por-

passage

Greek

(poros)

pore, porosity

porc-

pig

Latin

porcus

porcine, pork

porn-

prostitute

Greek

(porn)

pornography

porphyr-

purple

Greek

(porphura)

porphyrin

port-

gate

Latin

porta

portal

port-

carry

Latin

portare, portatus

export, portable, transportation

post-

after, behind

Latin

post

posterior, postscript

pot-

drink

Latin

potus, potare

potable

potam-

river

Greek

(potamos)

hippopotamus, Mesopotamia

prasin-

leek-green

Greek

(prasinos)

prasinous

prat-

meadow

Latin

pratum

prav-

crooked

Latin

pravus

depravity

pre-

before

Latin

prae

previous

prec-

pray

Latin

prex, precis, precri

deprecation

pred-

prey

Latin

praeda, praedari

predator

prehend-, prend-,
prehens-

grasp

Latin

prehendere, prehensus

comprehend, prehensility

prem-, -prim-, press- press

Latin

premere, pressus

pressure

presby-

old

Greek

(presbus)

Presbyterianism

preter-

past

Latin

praeter

preterite, pretermission

preti-

price

Latin

pretium, pretiare

prim-

first

Latin

primus

primary, primeval, primitive

prior-

former

Latin

prior

priority

priv-

separate

Latin

privus, privare, privatus

deprivation, privilege

pro-

before, in front of

Greek

(pro)

prologue, prostate

pro-

for, forward

Latin

pro

procrastinate, propulsion

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

26

prob-

worthy, good

Latin

probus, probare

probation

proct-

anus

Greek

(prktos)

proctology

propri-

one's own, ownership

Latin

proprius, proprietas

appropriate, property, propriety

pros-

forward

Greek

(pros)

prosenchyma, prosthesis

prot-

first

Greek

(prtos)

protoplasm

proxim-

nearest

Latin

proximus, proximare

approximate, proximity

prun-

plum

Latin

prunus

prune

psamm-

sand

Greek

(psammos)

psammite, psammophyte, psammosere,

psammous

pseud-

false

Greek

(pseuds)

pseudonym

psil-

bare

Greek

(psilos)

epsilon, psilocybin

psych-

mind

Greek

(psuch)

psyche, psychology

psychr-

cold

Greek

(psuchros)

psychrometer

pter-

wing, fern

Greek

(pteron)

helicopter, pterodactyl

pto-

fall

Greek

(ptsis)

ptosis

pty-

saliva

Greek

(ptuon)

ptyalin

ptych-

fold, layer

Greek

, (ptuch)

triptych

pub-

sexually mature

Latin

pubes

pubescent, pubic

Latin

publicus

publication

publicpude-

shame

Latin

pudere

impudent, pudendum

pugn-

fight

Latin

pugna, pugnare

pugnacious, repugnant

pulchr-

beautiful

Latin

pulcher, pulchri

pulchritude

pulmon-

lung

Latin

pulmo, pulmonis

pulmonary

pulver-

dust

Latin

pulvis, pulveris

pulverize

pung-, punct-

prick

Latin

pungere, punctus

puncture, pungent

puni-

punish

Latin

punire, punitus

impunity, punitive

pup-

doll

Latin

pupa

pupa, puppet

pur-

pure

Latin

purus

impurity, purify

purg-

cleanse

Latin

purgare

expurgate, purgatory, purge

purpur-

purple

Latin

purpura

purpurate, purpureal

put-

prune, reckon

Latin

putre

compute, putative

pyg-

rump

Greek

(pug)

callipygian, pygostyle

pyl-

gate

Greek

, (puln,
pulnos)

pylon

pyr-

heat, fire

Greek

, (pur, puros)

pyrolysis

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

27

Q
Root

Meaning in English

Origin language

Etymology (root origin)

English examples

quadr-

four

Latin

quattuor

quadrangle, quadrillion

quadragen-

forty each

Latin

quadrageni

quadragenarian, quadragenary

quadragesim-

fortieth

Latin

quadragesimus

quadragesimal

quart-

fourth

Latin

quartus

quartary, quarter, quartile

quasi-

as if

Latin

quasi

quasar

quatern-

four each

Latin

quaterni

quaternary, quaternion

quati-, quass-

shake

Latin

quatere

quassation

quer-, -quir-, quesit-, -quisit-

search, seek

Latin

quaerere

Inquisition, query

qui-

rest

Latin

quies

quiet, requiem

quin-

five each

Latin

quini

quinary

quindecim-

fifteenth

Latin

quindecimus

quindecimal

quinden-

fifteen each

Latin

quindeni

quindenary

quinque-

five

Latin

quinque

quinquennium

quint-

fifth

Latin

quintus

quintary, quintile

quot-

how many, how great

Latin

quotiens

quota, quotient

R
Root

Meaning in English

Origin language Etymology (root origin)

English examples

rad-, ras-

scrape, shave

Latin

radere, rasus

abrade, abrasion, erasure

radi-

beam, spoke

Latin

radius, radiare

radiance, radiation

radic-

root

Latin

rdix, rdcis

eradicate, radical

ram-

branch

Latin

rmus

ramification, ramose

ran-

frog

Latin

rana

Rana

ranc-

rancidness, grudge, bitterness Latin

rancere

rancid, rancor

rap-

turnip

Latin

rapum

rapeseed

raph-

seam

Greek

(rhaph)

raphe, raphae

rar-

rare

Latin

rarus

rarity

rauc-

harsh, hoarse

Latin

raucus

raucous

re-, red-

again, back

Latin

re-

recede, redact

reg-, -rig-, rect- straight

Latin

regere, rectus

direct, dirigible, erect, erection, rectum

rem-

oar

Latin

remus

bireme, trireme

ren-

kidney

Latin

renes

renal

rep-, rept-

crawl, creep

Latin

repere, reptus

reptile

ret-

net

Latin

rete

reticle, retina

retro-

backward, behind

Latin

retro

retrograde, retrospective, retrovirus

rhabd-

rod

Greek

(rhabdos)

rhabdoid, rhabdom

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

28

rhach-, rach-

spine

Greek

, (rhachis) rhachiodont

rhag-

tear, rent

Greek

rhagades

rhe-

flow

Greek

(rhein)

rheostat

rhig-

chill

Greek

(rhigos)

rhigosaurus

rhin-

nose, snout

Greek

, (rhis, rhinos)

rhinoceros, rhinoplasty

rhiz-

root

Greek

(rhiza)

rhizome

rhod-

rose

Greek

(rhodon)

rhododendron

rhomb-

spinning top

Greek

(rhombos)

rhombus

rhynch-

snout

Greek

Rhynchobatus

rid-, ris-

laugh

Latin

ridere, risus

derision, ridicule

robor-

oak, strength

Latin

robur, roboris

corroboration

rod-, ros-

gnaw

Latin

rodere, rosus

corrode, erosion, rodent

rog-

ask

Latin

rogare

derogatory, interrogation

rostr-

beak, prow

Latin

rostrum

rostral, rostriform, rostrum

rot-

wheel

Latin

rota, rotare

rotation, rotunda

ruber-, rubr-

red

Latin

ruber

rubric, ruby

rug-

wrinkle

Latin

ruga, rugare

corrugation

rumin-

throat

Latin

rumen, ruminis

rumination

rump-, rupt-

break

Latin

rumpere, ruptus

eruption, interrupt, rupture

rur-

country

Latin

rus, ruris

rural

S
Root

Meaning in English

Origin
language

Etymology (root origin)

English examples

sacchar-

sugar

Greek

(sakcharon)

saccharin

sacr-, secr-

sacred

Latin

sacer, sacrare

consecrate, sacrament

sagac-

wise

Latin

sagax, sagacis

sagacity

sagitt-

arrow

Latin

sagitta

sagittal plane, Sagittaria

sal-

salt

Latin

sal, salis, salere

salinity

sali-, -sili-, salt-

jump

Latin

salire, saltus

resilient, salient, saltus

salic-

willow

Latin

salix, salicis

salicin

salv-

save

Latin

salvus, salvare

salvation

san-

healthy

Latin

sanus

insane, sanity

sanc-

holy

Latin

sancire, sanctus

sanctify, sanctuary

sanguin-

blood

Latin

sanguis, sanguinis

consanguinity, sanguine

sapi-, -sipi-

taste, wise

Latin

sapere

insipience, sapient

sapon-

soap

Latin

sapo, saponis

saponification

sarc-

flesh

Greek

, (sarx,
sarkos)

sarcophagus

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

29

saur-

lizard, reptile

Greek

(sauros)

dinosaur

sax-

rock

Latin

saxum

saxatile, saxicavous, saxicoline,

saxifrage, saxifragous

scab-

scratch

Latin

scabere

scabies

scal-

ladder, stairs

Latin

scala

scalar, scale

scalen-

uneven

Greek

(skalnos)

scalene muscles, scalene triangle

scand-, -scend-,
scans-, -scens-

climb

Latin

scandere

ascend, descend, transcendent

scaph-

anything hollow, bowl, ship

Greek

scaphoid bone

scel-

leg, thigh

Greek

, (skelos)

isosceles

schem-

plan

Greek

(schma)

schematic

schis-

split

Greek

, (schisma)

schism

sci-

know

Latin

scire

prescient, science

scind-, sciss-

split

Latin

scindere

rescind, scissors

scler-

hard

Greek

(sklros)

scleroderma, sclerosis

scoli-

crooked

Greek

(skolios)

scoliosis

scop-, scept-

look at, examine, view, observe

Greek

,
(skopos)

horoscope, kaleidoscope, stethoscope

scrib-, script-

write

Latin

scribere, scriptus

inscribe, scripture

sculp-

carve

Latin

sculpere, sculptus

sculpture

scut-

shield

Latin

scutum

scute

scyph-

cup

Greek

(skyphos)

Scyphozoa

se-, sed-

apart

Latin

se

secede, sedition

seb-

tallow

Latin

sebum

sebaceous, sebum

sec-, sect-, seg-

cut

Latin

secare

secant, section, segment

sed-

settle, calm

Latin

sedare, sedatus

sedative

sed-, -sid-, sess-

sit

Latin

sedere, sessus

reside, sediment, session, supersede

sedec-

sixteen

Latin

sedecim

sedecimal

seget-

in cornfields

Latin

segetum

sei-

shake

Greek

, (seismos)

seismograph

selen-

moon

Greek

(seln)

Selene, selenium

sell-

saddle, seat

Latin

sella

sella turcica

sema-

sign

Greek

(sma)

semantics, semaphore

semi-

half

Latin

semis

semifinal

semin-

seed

Latin

semen, seminis

insemination

sen-

old man

Latin

senex, senis

senator, senility

sen-

six each

Latin

seni

senary

senti-, sens-

feel

Latin

sentire, sensus

consensus, sentient

sept-

fence, partition, enclosure

Latin

saeptum

transept

sept-

seven

Latin

septem

septennial

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

30

septen-

seven each

Latin

septeni

septenary

septim-

seventh

Latin

septimus

septimal, septime

septuagen-

seventy each

Latin

septuageni

septuagenary

septuagesim-

seventieth

Latin

septuagesimus

septuagesima, septuagesimal

septuagint-

seventy

Latin

septuaginta

Septuagint

sequ-, secut-

follow

Latin

sequere, secutus

consecutive, sequence

ser-, sat-

cultivate

Latin

serere, satus

sative

ser-

body fluid

Latin

serum

serous

ser-

late

Latin

serus

serein, serotine

serp-

crawl, creep

Latin

serpere, serptus

serpent

serr-

saw, saw-toothed

Latin

serra, serrare

serration

serv-

save, protect, serve

Latin

servare

conservation

sesqui-

one and a half

Latin

sesqui

sesquicentennial

set-

bristle, hair

Latin

saeta

seta, setose

sever-

stern, strict, serious

Latin

severus

severity

sex-, se-

six

Latin

sex

semester, sexangle, sexennium

sexagen-

sixty each

Latin

sexageni

sexagenary

sexagesim-

sixtieth

Latin

sexagesimus

sexagesimal

sext-

sixth

Latin

sextus

sextant

sibil-

hiss

Latin

sibilus, sibilare

sibilance

sicc-

dry

Latin

siccus

desiccation

sider-

star

Latin

sidus, sideris

sidereal

sign-

sign

Latin

signum

design, designate, signal

sil-

quiet or still

Latin

silere

silence

silv-

forest

Latin

silva

silviculture

simi-

ape, monkey

Latin

simia

simian

simil-

likeness, trust, group

Latin

similis

assimilate, similarity

simul-

imitating, feigning

Latin

simulare

simulation

singul-

one each

Latin

singulus

singular

sinistr-

left

Latin

sinister, sinistri

sinistral

sinu-

(to draw) a line

Latin

sinuare

insinuate

sinus-

hollow, bay

Latin

sinus

sinusoidal

siph-

tube

Greek

(siphn)

siphon

sist-

cause to stand

Latin

sistere

consist, persistence

sit-

food, grain, wheat

Greek

(sitos)

sitology

soci-

group

Latin

socius, sociare

associate, social

sol-

sun

Latin

sol, solis

solar

sol-

comfort, soothe

Latin

solari

consolation, solace

sol-

alone, only

Latin

solus

desolate, sole, solo, solipsism

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

31

solen-

pipe, channel

Greek

(sln)

solenoid

solv-, solut-

loosen, set free

Latin

solvere, solutus

dissolve, solution

soma-

body

Greek

, (sma,
smatos)

somatic

somn-

sleep

Latin

somnus

insomnia

somni-

dream

Latin

somnium

somnial

son-

sound

Latin

sonus

resonance

soph-

wise

Greek

(sophos)

sophist, sophomore

sorb-, sorpt-

suck

Latin

sorbere

absorb, absorption

sord-

dirt

Latin

sordes, sordere

sordid

soror-

sister

Latin

soror

sorority

spati-

space

Latin

spatium

spatial

spec-, -spic-, spect-

look

Latin

specere

conspicuous, inspection, specimen

spect-

watch, look at

Latin

spectare

spectator

specul-

observe

Latin

speculari

speculation

sper-

hope

Latin

spes, sperare

desperation, esperance

sperm-

seed

Greek

(sperma)

angiosperm

sphen-

wedge

Greek

(sphn)

sphenoid

spher-

ball

Greek

(sphaira)

sphere, spheroid

sphinct-

closing

Greek

sphincter

spic-

spike

Latin

spica

spicule

spin-

thorn

Latin

spina

spine

spir-

breathe

Latin

spirare

respiration

spond-, spons-

a surety, guarantee; give

assurance, promise solemnly

Latin

spondere, sponsus

respond

spondyl-

vertebra

Greek

(spondylos)

spondylosis

spu-, sput-

spew, spit

Latin

spuere

sputum

squal-

scaly, dirty, filthy

Latin

squalere

squalid, squalor

squam-

scale

Latin

squama

squamous

squarros-

spreading at tips

Latin

squarrosus

squarrose

st-

stand

Latin

stare, status

stable, station, statistic, statue, status

stagn-

pool of standing water

Latin

stagnare

stagnant

stalact-

Greek

(stalaktits)

stalactite

stalagm-

Greek

(stalagmos)

stalagmite

stann-

tin

Latin

stannum

stannous

stasi-

standing, discord

Greek

(stasis)

static

statu-, -stitu-

stand

Latin

statuere

institution, statute

stear-

fat, tallow

Greek

, (stear,
steatos)

stearic acid

steg-

covering

Greek

(stege),
(steganos)

steganography, Stegosaurus

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

32

stell-

star

Latin

stella

constellation, stellar

sten-

narrow

Greek

(stenos)

stenography

stere-

solid

Greek

(stereos)

stereometry

stern-, strat-

spread, strew

Latin

sternere, stratus

stratify

stern-

breastbone

Greek

(sternon)

sternum

stich-

line, row

Greek

(stichos)

distich

stigmat-

mark, puncture

Greek

(stigma)

stigma

still-

drip

Latin

stilla, stillare

distillation

stimul-

goad, rouse, excite

Latin

stimulus

stimulate

stingu-, stinct-

apart

Latin

stinguere

distinction, distinguish

stoch-

aim

Greek

stochastic

stom-

mouth

Greek

(stoma)

stomatoplasty

strept-

twisted

Greek

(streptos)

Streptococcus

strig-

compress

Latin

strix, strigis

strigogyps

strigos-

having stiff bristles

Latin

strigosus from striga

strigose

string-, strict-

upright, stiff

Latin

stringere, strictus

stringent

stroph-

turning

Greek

(stroph)

apostrophe

stru-, struct-

to make up, build

Latin

struere, structus

construction, construe

stud-

dedication

Latin

studere

student

stup-

wonder

Latin

stupere

stupor

styl-

column, pillar

Greek

(stulos)

Stylites

su-, sut-

sew

Latin

suere, sutus

suture

sui-

self

Latin

sui

sui generis, suicide

suad-, suas-

urge

Latin

suadere, suasus

persuasion

suav-

sweet

Latin

suavis

suave

sub-, su-, suf-, sug-,

sup-, sus-

below

Latin

sub

submarine, submerge, suffix, suggest,

support

subter-

under

Latin

subter

subterfuge

sucr-

sugar

Latin

succarum

sucrose

sud-

sweat

Latin

sudare

sudoriferous

sulc-

furrow

Latin

sulcus

sulcus

sum-, sumpt-

take

Latin

sumere, sumptus

assumption, consume

super-

above, over

Latin

super

supersede

supin-

lying back

Latin

supinus

supination, supine

supra-

above, over

Latin

supra

supranationalism

surd-

deaf

Latin

surdus

absurdity

surg-

rise

Latin

surgere

resurgent

syn-, sy-, syl-, sym-

with

Greek

(sun)

symbol, symmetry, sympathy,

synchronous, synonym, system

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

syring-

33

pipe

Greek

, (syrinx, syringe
syringos)

T
Root

Meaning in English Origin language

Etymology (root origin)

English examples

tac-, -tic-

be silent

Latin

tacere, tacitus

reticent, tacit

tach-

swift

Greek

(tachus)

tachometer, tachycardia

taeni-

ribbon

Greek

(tainia)

taenidium, taeniodont, Taeniolabis

tal-

ankle

Latin

talus

talus bone

tang-, -ting-, tact-, tag- touch

Latin

tangere, tactus

contact, tactile, tangent

tapet-

carpet

Latin

tapete, tapetis

tapestry, tapetum, tapis

tard-

slow

Latin

tardus

retard, tardigrade, tardy

tars-

ankle

Greek

(tarsos, a flat basket)

tarsal

taur-

bull

Greek

(tauros)

Minotaur

taur-

bull

Latin

taurus

Taurus

tax-

arrangement, order

Greek

(taxis)

taxonomy

techn-

art, skill

Greek

(techn)

technology

teg-, tect-

cover

Latin

tegere, tectus

integument, protection

tele-

far, end

Greek

(tle)

telegram, telephone, telescope

tele-

complete

Greek

(telos)

teleology

temn-

cut

Greek

(temn)

Temnospondyli

tempor-

time

Latin

tempus, temporis

contemporary, temporal, temporary

ten-, -tin-, tent-

hold

Latin

tenere, tentus

continent, detention, tenacious, tenor

tend-, tens-

stretch, strain

Latin

tendere, tensus

extend, extension, tensile

tenu-

slender, thin

Latin

tenuis

attenuate, tenuous

tep-

be warm

Latin

tepere

tepid, tepor

ter-, trit-

rub

Latin

terere, tritus

attrition, contrite, detritus, trite

teret-

rounded

Latin

teres, teretis

subterete, teretial

terg-, ters-

wipe

Latin

tergere, tersus

detergent, terse

termin-

boundary, limit, end Latin

terminus

determine, terminal, termination

tern-

three each

Latin

terni

ternary, ternion

terr-

earth

Latin

terra

subterranean, terrace, terracotta, terrain

terti-

third

Latin

tertius

tertian, tertiary

test-

witness

Latin

testis

testament, testimony

tetr-

four

Greek

(tessares)

tetrahedron, tetrode

tex-, text-

weave

Latin

texere, textus

context, subtle, textile, texture

thalam-

chamber, bed

Greek

(thalamos)

hypothalamus

thalass-

sea

Greek

(thalassa)

Panthalassa, thalassemia

than-

death

Greek

(thanatos)

euthanasia, thanatology

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

34

the-, thus-

god

Greek

(theos)

enthusiasm, theology

the-

put

Greek

(tithmi), (thk) Bibliotheca, theca, theme, thesis

thel-

nipple

Greek

(thl)

epithelium, thelium, thelial

theori-

speculation

Greek

(theria)

theorem, theory

ther-

beast, animal

Greek

, (thr)

theroid, theropod

therm-

heat, warm

Greek

(thermos)

endotherm, thermometer

thym-

mood

Greek

(thumos)

dysthymia

thyr-

door

Greek

(thura)

thyratron

thyre-

large shield

Greek

(thureos)

Thyreophora, thyroid, thyrotropin, thyroxine

tim-

be afraid

Latin

timere

timid, timorous

ting-, tinct-

moisten

Latin

tingere, tinctus

tincture

tom-

cut

Greek

(tome), (tomos)

atom, ectomy, tome

ton-

stretch

Greek

(tonos)

isotonic, monotone, tone

top-

place

Greek

(topos)

topic, topography, toponymy

torn-, tourn-

turn or rotate

Latin from Greek tornare < (tornos)

tornado, tournament

torpe-

be numb

Latin

torpere

torpent, torpid, torpor

torqu-, tort-

twist

Latin

torquere, tortus

extortion, torque, torture

tot-

all, whole

Latin

totus

subtotal, total, totality

tox-

arrow, bow

Greek

(toxon)

toxic, toxoplasmosis

trab-

beam

Latin

trabs, trabis

trabeculae

trachy-

rough

Greek

(trachus)

trachea

trag-

goat

Greek

(tragos)

tragus

trah-, tract-

draw, pull

Latin

trahere, tractus

subtrahend, tractor

trans-, tra-, tran-

across

Latin

trans

tradition, transcend, transportation

trapez-

four-sided, table

Greek

(trapeza)

trapezius, trapezoid

traum-

wound

Greek

(trauma)

trauma, traumatic, traumatize

trecent-

three hundred

Latin

trecenti

trecentennial, trecentillion

tredec-

thirteen

Latin

tredecim

tredecimal

treiskaidek-

thirteen

Greek

(treiskaideka)

triskaidekaphobia

trem-

tremble

Latin

tremere

tremor

trema-

hole

Greek

(trma)

monotreme, trematode

tri-

three

Greek

, (treis, tria)

triad, trigon, triode, tripod

tri-

three

Latin

trs

triangle, triumvirate, trivia

tricen-

thirty each

Latin

triceni

tricenary

tricesim-, trigesim-

thirtieth

Latin

tricesimus

trigesimal

trich-

hair

Greek

, (thrix, trichos)

peritrichous, trichopathophobia, Trichoptera

trin-

three each

Latin

trini

trinary, trine, trinity

trit-

third

Greek

(tritos)

tritagonist

tritic-

wheat

Latin

triticum

triticale

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

35

troch-

wheel

Greek

(trochos)

trochlea

trop-

turning

Greek

(tropos)

heliotropism, psychotropic, tropic

troph-

feed, grow

Greek

, (trophos)

dystrophy, pogonotrophy, trophic

trud-, trus-

thrust

Latin

trudere, trusus

extrusion, intrude

tuss-

cough

Latin

tussis, tussire

pertussis

tympan-

drum

Greek

(tumpanon)

tympani

typ-

stamp, model

Greek

(tupos)

archetype, phenotype, typography

U
Root

Meaning in English Origin language Etymology (root origin)

English examples

uber-

fruitful

Latin

uber, uberare

exuberant

uligin-

in marshes

Latin

uligo, uliginis

uliginous

ulo-

wooly

Greek

(oulos)

Ulotrichi

ultim-

farthest

Latin

ultimus

ultimate, ultimatum

ultra-

beyond

Latin

ultra

ultrasonic

umbilic-

navel

Latin

umbilicus

umbilical

umbr-

shade, shadow

Latin

umbra

penumbra, umbrella

un-

one

Latin

unus, unius

unary, unicorn, union

unc-

hooked

Latin

uncus

uncinate, Uncinia

unci-

ounce, twelfth

Latin

uncia

uncial

und-

wave

Latin

unda

abundant, redundancy, undulate

undecim- eleventh

Latin

undecimus

undecimal

unden-

eleven each

Latin

undeni

undenary

ungui-

claw, nail

Latin

unguis

unguiform

ungul-

claw, hoof

Latin

ungula

ungulate

ur-

tail

Greek

(oura)

uroid, uroborus

ur-

urine

Greek

(ouron)

urology

urb-

city

Latin

urbs, urbis

suburbanite, urban, urbanism, urbanize

urg-

work

Latin

urgere

urgent

urs-

bear

Latin

ursus

Ursa Major, ursine, Ursus

ut-, us-

use

Latin

uti, usus

usual, utility

uv-

grape

Latin

uva

uvea

uxor-

wife

Latin

uxor

uxoricide

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

36

V
Root

Meaning in English Origin language Etymology (root origin)

English examples

vac-

empty

Latin

vacare

vacancy, vacation, vacuum

vacc-

cow

Latin

vacca

vaccary, vaccination, vaccine

vad-, vas-

go

Latin

vadere

evade, pervasive

vag-

wander

Latin

vagus, vagare

vagabond, vague

van-

empty, vain, idle

Latin

vanus

evanescent, vanity

vap-

lack (of)

Latin

vapor

evaporation, vapid, vaporize

veh-, vect-

carry

Latin

vehere, vectus

vehicle, vector

vel-

veil

Latin

velum

revelation, velate

vell-, vuls-

pull

Latin

vellere, vulsus

convulsion

veloc-

quick

Latin

velox, velocis

velocity

ven-

vein

Latin

vena

intravenous, venosity, venule

ven-

hunt

Latin

venari

venison

ven-, vent-

come

Latin

venire

advent, convention

vend-

sell

Latin

vendere

vendor, vending

vener-

respectful

Latin

venus, veneris

venerable, veneration, venereal

vent-

wind

Latin

ventus

ventilation, ventilator

ventr-

belly

Latin

venter, ventris

ventral

ver-

true

Latin

verus

aver, veracious, verify, verisimilitude, verity

verb-

word

Latin

verbum

verbal, verbatim, verbosity

verber-

whip

Latin

verber

reverberation

verm-

worm

Latin

vermis

vermiform, vermin

vern-

spring

Latin

ver, vernus

vernal

vert-, vers-

turn

Latin

vertere, versus

convert, inversion, invert, vertical

vesic-

bladder

Latin

vesica

vesical

vesper-

evening, western

Latin

vespera

vesperal

vest-

clothing, garment

Latin

vestis

divest, vest

vestig-

track

Latin

vestigium

investigate, vestigial

vet-

forbid

Latin

vetare

veto

veter-

old

Latin

vetus, veteris

inveterate, veteran

vi-

way

Latin

via

deviate, obvious, via

vic-

change

Latin

vicis

vice versa, vicissitude

vicen-, vigen-

twenty each

Latin

viceni

vicenary

vicesim-, vigesim- twentieth

Latin

vicesimus

vicesimary, vicesimation, vigesimal

vid-, vis-

see

Latin

videre, visus

video, vision

vil-

cheap

Latin

vilis

revile, vile, vilify

vill-

country house

Latin

villa

villa, village, villain

vill-

shaggy hair

Latin

villus

velour, velvet, villiform

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

37

vin-

wine

Latin

vinum

vine, vinous

vinc-, vict-

conquer

Latin

vincere, victus

invincible, victory

vir-

man

Latin

vir

triumvirate, virility

vir-

green

Latin

virere

virid, viridian

visc-

thick

Latin

viscum

viscosity

viscer-

internal organ

Latin

viscus, visceris

eviscerate, visceral

vit-

life

Latin

vita

vital, vitamin

vitell-

yolk

Latin

vitellus

vitellogenesis

viti-

fault

Latin

vitium

vice, vitiate

vitr-

glass

Latin

vitrum

vitreous, vitriol

viv-

live

Latin

vivere

revive, survive, vivid

voc-

voice

Latin

vox, vocis

provocative, vocal, vocation

vol-

fly

Latin

volare

volatility

vol-

wish

Latin

velle

volition

volv-, volut-

roll

Latin

volvere, volutus

convolution, revolve

vom-

discharge

Latin

vomere

vomit

vor-, vorac-

swallow

Latin

vorare, vorax

devour, voracious

vov-, vot-

vow

Latin

vovere, votus

votive

vulg-

crowd

Latin

vulgus

divulge, vulgarity, vulgate

vulner-

wound

Latin

vulnus, vulneris

vulnerable

vulp-

fox

Latin

vulps, vulpis

vulpine

X
Root

Meaning in English Origin language Etymology (root origin)

English examples

xanth- yellow

Greek

(xanthos)

xanthium, xanthochromia, xanthogenic, xanthophyll

xen-

foreign

Greek

(xenos)

xenoblast, xenogamy, xenophobia, xenon

xer-

dry

Greek

(xros)

xeroderma, xerography, xeromorph, xerophagy, xerophile, xerophyte

xiph-

sword

Greek

(xiphos)

xiphisternum, xiphoid, xiphophyllous

xyl-

wood

Greek

(xulon)

xylem, xylocarp, xyloid, xylophone

List of Greek and Latin roots in English

38

Root Meaning in English Origin language Etymology (root origin)

English examples

zel-

zeal, jealousy

Greek

(zlos)

jealousy, zeal

zo-

animal, living being

Greek

(zion)

protozoa, zoo, zoology

zon-

belt, girdle

Greek

(zn)

zonal, zone

zyg-

yoke

Greek

(zugon)

heterozygous, zygote

Greek

(zum)

enzyme, lysozyme

zym- ferment

References
[1] "phalaros" in LSJ (http:/ / archimedes. mpiwg-berlin. mpg. de/ cgi-bin/ archim/ dict/ hw?lemma=fa/ la_ros& step=entry& id=d004)

External links
List of Latin Derivatives (http://web.archive.org/web/20070823220828/http://cdsjcl.f2g.net/derivatives.
html)
Greek and Latin Roots (http://www.biology.ualberta.ca/courses.hp/zool250/Roots/roots.A-C.htm)
Database of Latin Dictionaries (http://www.brepols.net/publishers/pdf/Brepolis_DLD_manual_en.pdf)

Article Sources and Contributors

Article Sources and Contributors

List of Greek and Latin roots in English Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=594295050 Contributors: 069952497a, 12 Noon, 12mmclean, 16@r, 19smithj,
28421u2232nfenfcenc, 28bytes, 2D, A little insignificant, A p3rson, A520, Acather96, Aeasterw, Aesopos, After Midnight, Aizquier, Al-jeraiwy, Alan Liefting, Alansohn, Allens, Altar, Altzinn,
Alvestrand, AndreasJS, AndrewHowse, Andrewman327, Andycjp, Animum, Antonielly, Arjun G. Menon, Arpgme, Art LaPella, Arthena, Aruton, Asclepius, Asterion, Atethnekos, Atone0385,
Auntof6, Austin Martin, Authraw, Avoided, Awxdotcom, B, B.d.mills, BD2412, BadThingsAreBad, Barticus88, Bassdownunder, Bavaria72, Belovedfreak, Biglovinb, Bill, Bobo192, Boing! said
Zebedee, Bonedaddy4538, Bped1985, Broncoriderzzz18, Bsplendens, C6541, CTZMSC3, Caknuck, CalicoCatLover, CanadianLinuxUser, Causecity321, CesarFelipe, Cflm001, Charmedalien,
Cheetah999, Chillllls, Chris the speller, Cionary, Circeus, Cmichael, Cncmaster, Cnilep, Cntras, Cocheese805, Coffee, Cometstyles, Cucaniensis, Cxz111, Cyguy5, Cynwolfe, DA3N, DARTH
SIDIOUS 2, DBigXray, DDuea, DRosenbach, Damascity, Danaman5, Danielletardis, Danielmask, Danielsavoiu, Darklilac, Darknobility759, Darn6766, Dawn Bard, Ddarko1987,
DemocraticLuntz, Dewritech, Dimboukas, Discospinster, Donner60, Dougofborg, Douro20, Download, Dreadstar, Dspratomo, EagleFan, Eekerz, El C, Electriccatfish2, Engineer Bob,
Epicgenius, Equendil, Eslifer, EthanAlvaree, EuroCarGT, Everard Proudfoot, Excirial, Extrolophealian, FKmailliW, Fabian ruiz, Farlian, Firsfron, Fiveless, Fjbfour, Fletcher3328, Fluffernutter,
Flyer22, Fox2k11, Fraggle81, Fratrep, Freelance Intellectual, Fruitwarrior, Future Perfect at Sunrise, GB fan, Gareth Griffith-Jones, Gavin.perch, GcSwRhIc, GeneralAtrocity, Geoff Wing,
George46, Georgialways, Gilliam, Ginsuloft, Glacialfox, Glane23, GoingBatty, Grafen, Gurch, H bar2, Hagane18, Hans-Friedrich Tamke, Huttarl, Hydrogen Iodide, I a m pp, Ian Pitchford,
Insanity Incarnate, J.delanoy, J04n, JJ Harrison, JNW, JPG-GR, JPaestpreornJeolhlna, JaGa, Jack Greenmaven, James M Barlow, JavierMC, Jeffrd10, JerredS, Jiangchristopher1, JimVC3,
Jiying.qi, Jncraton, Jogloran, JonHarder, Jorelmb, Josh3580, Jossi, Jschnur, K6ka, KDS4444, KFP, Kaigew, KakistocraticLaw, Keilana, Kenchikuben, Kerowren, Kevinberger94, Kingpin13,
Koobaxion, Koolokamba, Lanuk123, Le Anh-Huy, Leeroyjenkins23, LeftClicker, Leostaley, Leuko, Liaocyed, Lighthead, LilHelpa, Liuyj, LizIverson, Lizardwrangler, Lizzie Harrison,
Lkjhgfdsa, Logical Gentleman, Lore aura, Lugia2453, Lyricmac, MPerel, Macedonian, Mako098765, Malinaccier, Mandarax, MarcoTolo, Marek69, Mark Arsten, Markluffel, Materialscientist,
Mbc362, Medallic95, Medalon M17, Michael Devore, Michael Hardy, MikeVitale, Mild Bill Hiccup, Minimac's Clone, Misterkeith, Mofus, Monterey Bay, Mrug2, Muhandes, MusikAnimal,
Mvonstein, Naufana, NawlinWiki, Neelix, Nehrams2020, NerdyScienceDude, Nick Number, Nihiltres, Nono64, OakRunner, ObiWanKenobi11, Omnipaedista, Onceonthisisland, Optakeover,
Panscient, Pdcook, Pekayer11, Peter Karlsen, Phil Bridger, Piano non troppo, Pmergner, Pne, Pokemonblackds, Prari, Pratyya Ghosh, PrestonH, Psychonaut, Quaziemotto96, Quietust, R'n'B,
RPlunk2853, RSido, Rartrin, Red Slash, Reswobslc, Richardson mcphillips, Rocket71048576, Russot1, S ried, Sam Sailor, Samuella, Samwb123, Scharb, Schmloof, SchreiberBike, Scientific
Alan 2, Selket, SeoMac, Shanes, ShelfSkewed, SkareKrow90, Skohlar, Slon02, Smalljim, Smed96, Sni56996, Snow Blizzard, Solarra, Speedkill15, Speednub, StAnselm, StaticGull, Strake,
Struway, Sunray, SuperJew, Superiormind, T-borg, TEB728, Tabletop, Tadpole9, Tanthalas39, Teammm, Telpardec, Tentinator, Tetraedycal, Thanatos666, The Jacobin, The Thing That Should
Not Be, Tide rolls, Toddler619, Tommy2010, Topbanana, Torak31, Tot12, Tourdeforcex, Traxs7, TreasuryTag, Tremewanbill, Trollaxor, Trunks ishida, UNIT A4B1, Ucucha, Uncle Dick,
Unschool, Urankabashi, Urhixidur, Useight, UtherSRG, Uzairhaq, Visite fortuitement prolonge, Vivin, Vslashg, Vsobaka05, Vtechfan, VvV-Aez, WadeSimMiser, Wafry, Wakuran, Wareh,
Wavelength, Wayne Slam, Wbm1058, Weekendbros, Widefox, Widr, WikiDao, Wilson44691, Woohookitty, WordsExpert, Wywin, Xanchester, Yintan, Ysaimanoj, Zalgo, Zoe, Zvar, 1500
anonymous edits

License
Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0
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