Navigating the vast landscape of healthcare requires a solid understanding of its specialized language. This Comprehensive Medical Terminology Glossary serves as an indispensable resource for students, healthcare professionals, and anyone seeking to demystify complex medical jargon. From the structure of the human body to intricate treatment protocols, mastering these terms is crucial for effective communication and learning within the medical field. Our guide breaks down key vocabulary, making it accessible and easy to understand.

Comprehensive Medical Terminology Glossary: An Essential Guide for Students

Understanding medical terminology isn't just about memorizing words; it's about grasping the concepts that underpin diagnosis, treatment, and patient care. This guide is designed to provide clarity on a wide range of terms encountered in various medical disciplines, helping students prepare for exams and understand real-world medical scenarios.

The Healthcare System and Professionals

The healthcare system involves a network of facilities, personnel, and services designed to maintain and restore health. Key terms in this area include:

Admission: The process of officially allowing a patient into a healthcare facility (admit v.).
Ambulance: A vehicle equipped for medical emergencies.
Appointment: A scheduled meeting with a healthcare professional.
Assess v. / Assessment: To evaluate a patient's condition (n.).
Assist v.: To help.
Auxiliary adj.: Providing supplementary or additional help and support.
Capitation: A payment arrangement for healthcare services.
Cardiologist / Cardiology: A doctor specializing in heart conditions (n.) / The study of the heart (n.).
Carry out v.: To perform a task.
Casualty: A person injured or killed in an accident or war; the emergency department.
Check-up: A general medical examination.
Clinic: A place for medical treatment or advice.
Clinician: A healthcare professional who works directly with patients.
Consultant: A senior doctor who specializes in a particular area of medicine.
Counselling*: Professional guidance.
Department: A division of a hospital (e.g., cardiology department).
Dermatology: The study of skin diseases.
Discharge n. / v.: The release of a patient from care (n.) / To release (v.).
Ear-nose-throat: Abbreviation for otorhinolaryngology, a medical specialty.
Emergency: A serious situation requiring immediate action.
Evaluate v. / Evaluation: To assess (v.) / The assessment (n.).
Facility: A place or service provided for a particular purpose.
Family doctor / General practitioner (GP): A doctor who provides primary care to people of all ages.
Fee for service: A payment model where services are paid for individually.
Geneticist / Genetics: A specialist in genes (n.) / The study of heredity (n.).
Geriatrician / Geriatrics: A specialist in elderly care (n.) / The branch of medicine concerned with the elderly (n.).
Graduate n. / v.: A person who has completed a degree (n.) / To complete a degree (v.).
Gynaecology*: The branch of medicine dealing with the health of the female reproductive system.
Haematology*: The study of blood.
Health centre*: A facility providing primary healthcare.
Health visitor: A nurse who provides care in the community.
Healthcare: The provision of medical care.
Healthcare professional: Any trained medical worker.
Home visit: A visit by a healthcare professional to a patient's home.
Hospital: An institution for medical treatment.
Immunization: The process of making a person immune to an infection.
Inpatient: A patient who stays in a hospital while receiving treatment.
Insurance / Insurance company / Insure v.: Financial protection against medical costs (n.) / A company offering insurance (n.) / To provide insurance (v.).
Intensive care unit (ICU): A specialized hospital department for critically ill patients.
Internal medicine: The branch of medicine dealing with the diagnosis and treatment of internal diseases.
Laboratory: A place for scientific experiments and tests.
Management: The organization and control of resources or people; the approach to treating a disease.
Midwife: A person trained to assist women in childbirth.
National Health Service (NHS): (UK-specific) A publicly funded healthcare system.
Neurology / Neurosurgery: The study of the nervous system (n.) / Surgery of the nervous system (n.).
Nurse: A trained professional who cares for the sick or injured.
Obstetrician / Obstetrics: A doctor specializing in childbirth (n.) / The branch of medicine and surgery concerned with childbirth (n.).
On call: Available for emergency duty.
On duty: Working at a particular time.
Oncology: The study and treatment of tumors.
Orthopaedics*: The branch of surgery dealing with bone and joint disorders.
Outpatient: A patient who visits a hospital for treatment but does not stay overnight.
Paediatrician* / Paediatrics*: A child specialist (n.) / The branch of medicine dealing with children (n.).
Paramedic: A healthcare professional who responds to emergencies.
Perform v.: To carry out a task.
Pharmacist / Pharmacy: A person qualified to dispense medicines (n.) / A place where medicines are dispensed (n.).
Physician: A medical doctor.
Physiotherapist / Physiotherapy: A professional who treats injury or disease by physical methods (n.) / The treatment itself (n.).
Postgraduate: A person who has undertaken study beyond a first degree.
Practice / Practise v.: The work of a doctor (n.) / To work as a doctor (v.).
Prescribe v. / Prescription: To authorize the use of a medicine (v.) / A written authorization for medicine (n.).
Primary adj.: First or highest in rank or importance; first level of care.
Private adj.: For individual use; funded by individuals or private insurance.
Psychiatrist / Psychiatry: A doctor specializing in mental illness (n.) / The study and treatment of mental illness (n.).
Public adj.: For all people; publicly funded.
Qualification / Qualify v.: An achievement or skill that makes you suitable for a particular job or activity (n.) / To be suitable (v.).
Record: A permanent account of events.
Refer v. / Referral: To send a patient to another specialist (v.) / The act of referring (n.).
Register v.: To officially enroll.
Rehabilitation: The process of restoring someone to health or normal life.
Screening: Testing for disease or risk factors.
Secondary adj.: Second in rank or importance; second level of care.
Shift: A period of work.
Specialist / Speciality / Specialize v. / Specialty (US): A doctor in a specific field (n.) / A particular area of medicine (n.) / To concentrate on a particular area (v.) / (US term for speciality).
Staff: The group of people who work for an organization.
Surgeon / Surgery: A doctor who performs operations (n.) / The branch of medicine dealing with operations (n.).
Teaching hospital: A hospital affiliated with a university, used for medical education.
Technician: A person skilled in a particular technical field.
Tertiary adj.: Third in rank or importance; third level of care.
Trainee: A person undergoing training for a particular job or profession.
Treat v.: To give medical care.
Undergraduate: A university student who has not yet received a first degree.
University hospital: A hospital affiliated with a university.
Urology: The study of the urinary system.
Vaccination: Administration of a vaccine to produce immunity.
Waiting list: A list of people waiting for a service.
Ward: A room in a hospital, typically one shared by many patients.
Ward round: A routine visit by a doctor or medical team to patients in a ward.

Common Medical Conditions and Diseases

Understanding diseases is fundamental to medical practice. Here's a glossary of terms related to various conditions:

Abnormality / Abnormal adj.: A deviation from what is normal (n.) / Not normal (adj.).
Ache n., v.: A continuous or prolonged dull pain (n.) / To suffer a dull pain (v.).
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS): A disease caused by the HIV virus.
Acute adj.: Of short duration and typically severe.
Aetiology*: The cause, set of causes, or manner of causation of a disease or condition.
Affect v.: To influence or produce an effect upon.
Allergy / Allergic adj.: A damaging immune response by the body to a substance (n.) / Having an allergy (adj.).
Asymptomatic adj.: Showing no symptoms of disease.
Autoimmune adj.: Relating to a disease caused by antibodies or lymphocytes produced against substances naturally present in the body.
Bacterial adj. / Bacterium pl. -a: Relating to bacteria (adj.) / A single-celled microorganism (n.).
Benign adj.: Not harmful in effect; not malignant.
Cancer: A malignant growth or tumor.
Carrier: A person or animal that harbors a disease-causing organism without experiencing symptoms but can transmit it to others.
Carry v.: To transport or convey.
Catch v.: To become infected with a disease.
Cause n., v.: The reason for an event or condition (n.) / To make something happen (v.).
Chickenpox: An infectious disease causing a mild fever and a rash of itchy inflamed blisters.
Chronic adj.: (Of a disease or condition) persisting for a long time or constantly recurring.
Cold: A common viral infection of the nose and throat.
Complaint: A statement that something is unsatisfactory or unacceptable.
Complication: A secondary disease or condition aggravating an already existing one.
Condition: The state of something with regard to its appearance, quality, or working order.
Congenital adj.: (Of a disease or physical abnormality) present from birth.
Contagious adj.: (Of a disease) spread from one person or organism to another by direct or indirect contact.
Cough n., v.: A sudden, forceful expulsion of air from the lungs (n.) / To expel air this way (v.).
Course: The way in which something progresses or develops.
Curable adj.: Able to be cured.
Death: The permanent cessation of all vital bodily functions.
Deficiency: A lack or shortage of something.
Degenerative adj.: (Of a disease or condition) characterized by progressive deterioration.
Diagnose v. / Diagnosis pl. -es: To identify the nature of an illness (v.) / The identification of the nature of an illness (n.).
Die of/from v.: To cease to live due to a specific cause.
Difficulty: The state or condition of being difficult.
Diphtheria: A serious bacterial infection.
Disability / Disable v.: A physical or mental condition that limits a person's movements, senses, or activities (n.) / To make someone unable to function normally (v.).
Disorder: A disruption of normal physical or mental functions.
Duration: The length of time that something continues or lasts.
Dysfunction: Impairment in the function of a specified bodily organ or system.
Enlarge v.: To make or become larger.
Epidemic n., adj.: A widespread occurrence of an infectious disease in a community at a particular time (n.) / Pertaining to an epidemic (adj.).
Exposure: The state of being exposed to something.
Fail v. / Failure: To be unsuccessful (v.) / The state of being unsuccessful (n.).
Fatal adj.: Causing death.
Fatigue: Extreme tiredness.
Fever: An abnormally high body temperature.
Flu: Influenza.
Genetic adj.: Relating to genes or heredity.
German measles: Rubella, a contagious viral disease.
Growth: The process of increasing in size.
Health / Healthy adj.: The state of being free from illness or injury (n.) / In good health (adj.).
Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver.
Hereditary adj.: (Of a characteristic or disease) determined by genetic factors and thus able to be passed on from parents to their offspring.
Ill adj. / Illness: Suffering from a disease or ailment (adj.) / A disease or period of sickness (n.).
Immune adj. / Immunization: Resistant to a particular infection or toxin (adj.) / The process of rendering a subject immune (n.).
Impaired adj. / Impairment: Weakened or damaged (adj.) / A weakness or damage (n.).
Incubation: The period between exposure to an infection and the appearance of the first symptoms.
Infection / Infectious adj.: The process of infecting or being infected (n.) / (Of a disease or agent) able to be transmitted (adj.).
Inflame v. / Inflammation / Inflammatory adj.: To provoke or intensify an inflammatory reaction (v.) / A localized physical condition in which part of the body becomes reddened, swollen, hot, and often painful (n.) / Causing or relating to inflammation (adj.).
Influenza: A common acute viral infection of the respiratory tract.
Involvement: The fact or condition of being involved in something.
Loss: The fact or process of losing something or someone.
Malaise: A general feeling of discomfort, illness, or unease whose exact cause is difficult to identify.
Malignant adj.: (Of a disease) very virulent or infectious.
Manifestation: An event, action, or object that clearly shows or embodies something, especially a theory or an abstract idea.
Measles: An infectious viral disease causing fever and a red rash.
Mental adj.: Relating to the mind.
Metastasis pl. -es / Metastasize v.: The development of secondary malignant growths at a distance from a primary site of cancer (n.) / To spread to other sites (v.).
Mild adj.: Not severe, serious, or harsh.
Moderate adj.: Average in amount, intensity, quality, or degree.
Mumps: A contagious disease causing swelling of the parotid glands.
Neoplasm: A new and abnormal growth of tissue.
Non-infectious adj.: Not able to be transmitted.
Onset: The beginning of something, especially something unpleasant.
Pain / Painful adj. / Painless adj.: An unpleasant physical sensation (n.) / Causing pain (adj.) / Not causing pain (adj.).
Physical adj.: Relating to the body.
Poliomyelitis (Polio): A viral disease that can cause paralysis.
Present v.: To occur or be found.
Prevent v. / Prevention: To stop something from happening (v.) / The action of stopping something (n.).
Primary adj.: First or highest in rank or importance; first level of disease prevention.
Prognosis pl. -es: The likely course of a disease or ailment (n.).
Rash: An area of reddening of the skin, often accompanied by itching.
Recover v. / Recovery: To return to a normal state of health (v.) / A return to a normal state (n.).
Recur v. / Recurrence: To happen again (v.) / The act of recurring (n.).
Relapse n., v.: A deterioration in someone's state of health after a temporary improvement (n.) / To suffer a relapse (v.).
Remission: A temporary diminution of the seriousness or intensity of disease or pain.
Scarlet fever: An infectious bacterial disease.
Secondary adj.: Second in rank or importance; secondary prevention.
Severe adj. / Severity: Very great; intense (adj.) / The fact or condition of being severe (n.).
Sexually transmitted disease/infection (STD/STI): An infection transmitted through sexual contact.
Sick adj. / Sickness: Affected by physical or mental illness (adj.) / The state of being sick (n.).
Sign: An objective indication of disease (e.g., fever, rash).
Spread v.: To extend over a larger or increasing area.
Stage: A particular point or period in the course of something.
Stroke: A sudden disabling attack caused by an interruption of blood flow to the brain.
Suffer from v.: To experience or be subjected to (something bad or unpleasant).
Survival / Survive v. / Survivor: The state of continuing to live or exist (n.) / To continue to live (v.) / A person who survives (n.).
Susceptible adj.: Likely or liable to be influenced or harmed by a particular thing.
Sweat n., v.: Moisture exuded through the pores of the skin (n.) / To exude moisture (v.).
Swell v.: To become larger or rounder in size.
Symptom / Symptomless adj.: A subjective indication of disease (e.g., pain, nausea) (n.) / Showing no symptoms (adj.).
Syndrome: A group of symptoms that consistently occur together.
Transmission / Transmit v.: The action or process of transmitting something (n.) / To pass something on (v.).
Treatable adj.: Able to be cured or remedied.
Trigger n., v.: A small device that releases a spring or catch (n.) / To cause an event to happen (v.).
Tumour*: An abnormal growth of tissue.
Typhoid fever: An infectious bacterial fever.
Unwell adj.: Ill or unhealthy.
Vaccine / Vaccination: A substance used to stimulate the production of antibodies and provide immunity (n.) / The act of vaccinating (n.).
Viral adj. / Virus: Relating to a virus (adj.) / An infective agent (n.).
Weaken v. / Weakness: To make or become weak (v.) / The state or condition of being weak (n.).
Well adj.: In good health.
Whooping cough: A contagious bacterial disease causing severe coughing fits.

Pharmacology and Treatments: Understanding Medications

This section covers terms related to medications, their administration, and therapeutic effects.

Absorb v. / Absorption: To take in a liquid, gas, or other substance (v.) / The process of absorbing (n.).
Action: The effect produced by a drug.
Acupuncture: A traditional Chinese medicine technique involving needles.
Adjuvant adj.: (Of therapy) given after primary treatment to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Administer v. / Administration: To give (a drug) (v.) / The act of giving (n.).
Adverse adj.: Unfavorable or harmful.
Agent: A substance that produces an effect.
Allergic adj.: Having an allergy.
Alleviate v.: To make suffering, deficiency, or a problem less severe.
Amount: A quantity of something.
Anaesthetic* n., adj.: A substance that induces insensitivity to pain (n.) / Inducing insensitivity to pain (adj.).
Analgesic n., adj.: A drug acting to relieve pain (n.) / Relieving pain (adj.).
Anaphylactic shock: A severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.
Antibiotic n., adj.: A medicine that inhibits the growth of or destroys microorganisms (n.) / Relating to antibiotics (adj.).
Anticoagulant n., adj.: A substance that prevents blood from clotting (n.) / Preventing blood from clotting (adj.).
Antidepressant: A drug used to alleviate depression.
Antihistamine: A drug that counteracts histamine effects.
Anti-inflammatory adj.: Reducing inflammation.
Apply v.: To put on or use.
Aspirin: A common pain reliever and anti-inflammatory drug.
Available adj.: Able to be obtained or used.
Avoid v.: To keep away from or stop oneself from doing something.
Capsule: A small casing, typically gelatin-based, containing a dose of medicine.
Check n., v.: An examination to ascertain accuracy or condition (n.) / To examine (v.).
Chemist: A person who prepares and sells chemicals and drugs; a pharmacist.
Chemotherapy: The treatment of disease by means of chemical substances.
Compliance: The action or fact of obeying a wish or command.
Contraceptive n., adj.: A device or drug serving to prevent pregnancy (n.) / Preventing pregnancy (adj.).
Contraindication: A condition or factor that renders a particular treatment or procedure inadvisable.
Control v.: To determine the behavior or supervise the running of.
Counselling*: Professional guidance.
Curative adj.: Able to cure disease.
Cure n., v.: A remedy for a disease or ailment (n.) / To remedy a disease (v.).
Daily adj., adv.: Done or occurring every day (adj.) / Every day (adv.).
Dispense v.: To distribute or hand out.
Dissolve v.: To become integrated into a liquid to form a solution.
Diuretic n., adj.: A substance that increases the excretion of urine (n.) / Increasing urine excretion (adj.).
Dosage / Dose: The size or frequency of a dose of medicine (n.) / A quantity of a medicine taken or administered at one time (n.).
Drops pl.: Liquid medication administered in small quantities.
Drug: A medicine or other substance which has a physiological effect when ingested or otherwise introduced into the body.
Effect / Effective adj. / Efficacy: A change which is a result or consequence of an action or other cause (n.) / Successful in producing a desired or intended result (adj.) / The ability to produce a desired or intended result (n.).
Enteral adj.: Of, in, or relating to the intestine.
Erythromycin: A type of antibiotic.
Excretion: The process of eliminating waste matter.
Expiry: The end of a period of validity or a term.
Frequency: The rate at which something occurs or is repeated over a particular period of time or in a given sample.
Gargle n., v.: To wash one's mouth and throat with liquid that is kept in motion by exhaling through it (n.) / To perform this action (v.).
Gel: A semisolid colloidal solution.
Generic n., adj.: A drug not protected by a brand name (n.) / (Of a product) having no brand name (adj.).
Give up v.: To stop doing or having something.
Heal v.: To become sound or healthy again.
Herbal adj.: Relating to or made from herbs.
Homeopathy: A system of alternative medicine.
Hypersensitivity: Abnormal physical sensitivity to certain substances.
Immunotherapy: The prevention or treatment of disease with substances that stimulate the immune response.
Indication: A reason to use a particular treatment.
Infusion: The slow injection of a fluid into a vein.
Inhaler: A device used for breathing in medication.
Injection: The act of injecting medicine or other substances into the body.
Insulin: A hormone that regulates blood sugar.
Interaction: The effect of one drug on another.
Intradermal adj.: Within the skin.
Intramuscular adj.: Within a muscle.
Intravenous adj.: Within a vein.
Irritation: The state of being annoyed or bothered.
Laxative n., adj.: A medicine used to relieve constipation (n.) / Relieving constipation (adj.).
Lifestyle: The way in which a person or group lives.
Lotion: A liquid preparation for topical application.
Lozenge: A small, flavored tablet containing medicine.
Management: The organization and control of resources or people.
Medication / Medicine: A drug or other form of therapy used to treat or prevent disease (n.) / The science of treating disease (n.).
Metabolism: The chemical processes that occur within a living organism in order to maintain life.
Non-prescription: (Of a drug) available without a doctor's prescription.
Oil: A viscous liquid.
Ointment: A smooth, oily preparation rubbed on the skin for medicinal purposes.
Option: A thing that is or may be chosen.
Oral adj.: Taken by mouth.
Overdose: An excessive and dangerous dose of a drug.
Overprescribe v.: To prescribe too much medicine.
Over-the-counter drug: A medicine sold legally without a prescription.
Painkiller: A drug for relieving pain.
Palliative: (Of care or treatment) relieving pain without dealing with the cause of the condition.
Paracetamol: A common pain reliever.
Parenteral adj.: Administered or occurring elsewhere in the body than by way of the mouth and alimentary canal.
Paste: A soft, moist, coherent substance.
Patch: A medicated adhesive patch for application to the skin.
Patient information leaflet: A document providing details about a medicine for patients.
Penicillin: A widely used antibiotic.
Pessary: A vaginal suppository.
Pharmaceutical adj.: Relating to medicinal drugs.
Pharmacist / Pharmacy: A person qualified to prepare and dispense medicinal drugs (n.) / A place where medicines are dispensed (n.).
Physiotherapy: The treatment of disease, injury, or deformity by physical methods.
Pill: A small round mass of solid medicine.
Placebo: A substance that has no therapeutic effect, used as a control in testing new drugs.
Powder: Fine dry particles of a substance.
Preparation: The action or process of getting ready for something.
Prescribe v. / Prescription: To authorize the use of a medicine (v.) / A written authorization for medicine (n.).
Prognosis: The likely course of a disease or ailment.
Radiotherapy: The treatment of disease (especially cancer) using X-rays or other forms of radiation.
Reaction: An adverse response to a drug.
Rectal adj.: Relating to the rectum.
Reduce v.: To make smaller or less in amount.
Rehabilitation: The action of restoring someone to health or normal life through training and therapy.
Release n., v.: The act of allowing something to move freely (n.) / To allow to move freely (v.).
Relief / Relieve v.: The alleviation or reduction of pain, distress, or tension (n.) / To alleviate (v.).
Remedy: A medicine or treatment for a disease or injury.
Replacement: The action or process of replacing something.
Respond v. / Response: To react positively to treatment (v.) / A reaction or reply (n.).
Rest n., v.: A period of relaxing or sleeping (n.) / To relax or sleep (v.).
Route: A way or course taken in getting from a starting point to a destination.
Safety: The condition of being protected from harm.
Sedative n., adj.: A drug taken for its calming or sleep-inducing effect (n.) / Having a calming or sleep-inducing effect (adj.).
Session: A period of time devoted to a particular activity.
Side-effect: A secondary, typically undesirable, effect of a drug or medical treatment.
Solution: A liquid mixture in which the minor component (solute) is uniformly distributed within the major component (solvent).
Soothe v.: To gently calm a person or their pain.
Spray: A jet of liquid finely dispersed.
Stimulant: A substance that raises levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body.
Stimulate v.: To encourage something to grow, develop, or become active.
Subcutaneous adj.: Situated or applied under the skin.
Sublingual adj.: Situated or applied under the tongue.
Substance: A particular kind of matter with uniform properties.
Suppository: A solid medical preparation designed to be inserted into the rectum or vagina.
Suppress v.: To forcibly put an end to.
Survival: The state or fact of continuing to live or exist.
Syrup: A thick, sweet liquid medicine.
Tablet: A small disk of medicine.
Therapeutic adj. / Therapist / Therapy: Relating to the healing of disease (adj.) / A person who treats physical or mental illness (n.) / Treatment intended to heal (n.).
Topical adj.: Applied to a particular part of the body.
Toxic adj.: Poisonous.
Tranquillizer: A drug used to reduce anxiety or tension.
Treat v. / Treatment: To give medical care (v.) / The application of remedies to effect a cure (n.).
Vaccine: A substance used to stimulate the production of antibodies and provide immunity.
Vitamin: Any of a group of organic compounds which are essential for normal growth and nutrition.

First Aid Fundamentals: Emergency Response Terminology

First aid is immediate care for injuries or illnesses. This section provides critical terms.

Accident: An unfortunate incident that happens unexpectedly and unintentionally.
Airway: The passage by which air reaches a person's lungs.
Apply v.: To put on or use.
Arrest: To stop or check (a process or development).
Artificial respiration: The act of breathing for someone who has stopped breathing.
Bandage n., v.: A strip of material used to bind up a wound or to protect an injured part of the body (n.) / To bind with a bandage (v.).
Bite: An injury caused by biting.
Bleed v. / Bleeding: To lose blood (v.) / The process of losing blood (n.).
Blister: A small bubble on the skin filled with serum.
Blow v.: To move air out of the mouth.
Breath / Breathe v.: The air inhaled or exhaled (n.) / To take air into and expel it from the lungs (v.).
Broken bone: A fractured bone.
Bruise: An injury appearing as an area of discolored skin.
Burn: An injury caused by heat, electricity, chemicals, or radiation.
Bystander: A person who is present at an event or incident but does not take part.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR): An emergency procedure combining chest compressions and artificial ventilation.
Casualty: A person injured or killed in an accident.
Check v.: To examine something to ascertain its accuracy or condition.
Chest compression: Pressure applied to the chest in CPR.
Choke v. / Choking: To have severe difficulty in breathing because of an obstruction in the throat or windpipe (v.) / The act of choking (n.).
Circulation: The movement of blood around the body.
Concussion: Temporary unconsciousness or confusion caused by a blow to the head.
Conscious adj. / Consciousness: Aware of and responding to one's surroundings (adj.) / The state of being aware (n.).
Cool v.: To make or become less warm.
Cover v.: To place something over or in front of.
Critical adj.: (Of a situation or problem) having a decisive or crucial importance.
Cut: An incision in the skin.
Damage n., v.: Physical harm that impairs the value, usefulness, or normal function of something (n.) / To cause damage to (v.).
Deep adj.: Extending a long way down from the top or surface.
Defibrillator: A device that gives an electric shock to the heart to restore normal rhythm.
Dehydration: A harmful reduction in the amount of water in the body.
Dressing: A covering applied to a wound or sore.
Drowning: Death caused by submersion in water.
Elevate v.: To raise to a higher level.
Emergency: A serious, unexpected, and often dangerous situation requiring immediate action.
Epistaxis: A nosebleed.
Faint n., v.: A sudden loss of consciousness (n.) / To lose consciousness (v.).
Fatal adj.: Causing death.
First-aider / First-aid kit: A person trained to give first aid (n.) / A collection of supplies for giving first aid (n.).
Fracture: A break in a bone.
Frostbite: Injury to body tissues caused by exposure to extreme cold.
Graze: A superficial scrape or abrasion.
Heatstroke: A severe condition caused by excessive exposure to heat.
Immobilize v.: To prevent something from moving.
Induce v.: To bring about or give rise to.
Injure v. / Injury: To cause harm or damage to (v.) / Harm or damage (n.).
Intoxication: The state of being poisoned.
Life-saving adj.: Essential for preserving life.
Life-threatening adj.: Potentially fatal.
Lift v.: To raise to a higher position.
Loosen v.: To make something less tight or firm.
Mouth-to-mouth: A method of artificial respiration.
Move v.: To change place or position.
Nosebleed: Epistaxis.
Obstruction: A blockage in a passage or tube.
Pad: A thick piece of soft material.
Pinch v.: To grip something tightly between the finger and thumb.
Place v.: To put something in a particular position.
Poisoning / Poisonous adj.: The process of being poisoned (n.) / Capable of causing death or illness if taken into the body (adj.).
Pulse: The rhythmic throbbing of arteries as blood is pumped through them.
Raise v.: To lift or move something to a higher position.
Recovery position: A position in which an unconscious person can be placed to prevent choking.
Remove v.: To take away from the place occupied.
Rescue n., v. / Rescuer: The act of saving someone from a dangerous situation (n.) / To save (v.) / A person who rescues (n.).
Respond v. / Response: To react (v.) / A reaction (n.).
Rise v.: To move from a lower position to a higher one.
Scald: An injury to the skin or other tissue caused by hot liquid or steam.
Scratch: A superficial mark or cut on a surface.
Shock: A sudden drop in blood flow through the body.
Snakebite: A bite from a snake.
Splint: A device used to support and immobilize a broken bone or injured part.
Sprain: A wrench or twist of the ligaments of a joint.
Steady v.: To make or hold something steady.
Sting: A wound or pain caused by an insect or plant.
Strain: A tearing or stretching of a muscle or tendon.
Suffocate v. / Suffocation: To die or cause to die from lack of air (v.) / The state or act of suffocating (n.).
Sunburn: Inflammation of the skin caused by overexposure to the sun.
Sunstroke: A severe form of heatstroke caused by overexposure to the sun.
Superficial adj.: Existing or occurring on the surface.
Support v.: To bear all or part of the weight of.
Survivor: A person who remains alive after an event.
Syncope: Temporary loss of consciousness caused by a fall in blood pressure.
Thrust v.: To push or propel with force.
Tilt v.: To move into a sloping position.
Tourniquet: A device for stopping the flow of blood through a vein or artery.
Trauma: A deeply distressing or disturbing experience.
Unconscious adj. / Unconsciousness: Not awake and aware of one's surroundings (adj.) / The state of being unconscious (n.).
Venom: A poisonous substance secreted by animals.
Victim: A person harmed, injured, or killed as a result of a crime, accident, or other event.
Vomit n., v.: Food or drink that has been brought up from the stomach (n.) / To bring up food from the stomach (v.).
Witness: A person who sees an event happen.
Wound n., v.: An injury to living tissue caused by a cut, blow, or other impact (n.) / To inflict a wound on (v.).

Surgical Procedures and Equipment Glossary

This section covers terms used in surgery, including instruments and procedures.

Amputation: The surgical removal of a limb.
Anaesthesia* / Anaesthesiologist* / Anaesthetic* n., adj.: Insensitivity to pain (n.) / A doctor specializing in anaesthesia (n.) / A substance that induces insensitivity to pain (n.) / Inducing insensitivity to pain (adj.).
Antiseptic n., adj.: A substance that prevents the growth of disease-causing microorganisms (n.) / Preventing the growth of microorganisms (adj.).
Appliance: A device or piece of equipment.
Aseptic adj.: Free from contamination caused by harmful bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms.
Autoclave: A strong, heated container used for chemical reactions and other processes using high pressures and temperatures, e.g., for sterilization.
Bandage n., v.: A strip of material used to bind up a wound or to protect an injured part of the body (n.) / To bind with a bandage (v.).
Basin: A wide, circular, open container.
Can(n)ula: A thin tube inserted into a body cavity or vein.
Carry out v.: To perform a task.
Catheter: A flexible tube inserted into the body to drain fluids or inject them.
Clip: A device for holding things together.
Convalescence: Time spent recovering from an illness or medical treatment.
Cotton wool: Soft mass of cotton fibers used for medical purposes.
Crutch: A staff used for support by the lame or infirm.
Curette: A surgical instrument for scraping or scooping.
Device: A thing made or adapted for a particular purpose.
Disinfect v. / Disinfectant: To clean something with a disinfectant (v.) / A chemical liquid that destroys bacteria (n.).
Disposable adj.: Designed to be thrown away after one use.
Drain n., v.: A channel or pipe carrying off liquid (n.) / To draw off liquid (v.).
Drape: A covering for a patient during surgery.
Dressing: A covering applied to a wound or sore.
Drip: The slow release of liquid into a patient's body.
Electrocardiograph: An instrument that detects and records the electric currents generated by the heart.
Enema: A procedure in which liquid is injected into the rectum.
Excision: The act of cutting out or removing.
Fast n., v.: A period of time when one does not eat (n.) / To abstain from food (v.).
Fixation: The act of fastening or being fastened.
Forceps pl.: A pair of pincers or tweezers used in surgery or in a laboratory.
Gauze: A thin, transparent fabric used for dressings.
Glove: A covering for the hand.
Gown: A loose medical garment.
Incision: A surgical cut.
Infusion: The slow injection of a fluid into a vein.
Inoperable adj.: (Of a medical condition) not able to be treated by surgery.
Invasive adj.: (Of a medical procedure) involving incision into the body or insertion of an instrument.
Laparoscope / Laparoscopy: A fiber-optic instrument inserted through the abdominal wall to view organs (n.) / A surgical procedure using a laparoscope (n.).
Mask: A covering for the face.
Needle: A very fine slender piece of metal with a point at one end and a hole or eye at the other, used in sewing or surgery.
Operate on v.: To perform a surgical procedure.
Operating table: The table on which a patient lies during surgery.
Operating theatre* / Operating room (US): A room in a hospital specially equipped for surgical operations.
Operation: A surgical procedure.
Operator: A person who operates equipment or a machine.
Perform v.: To carry out a task.
Plaster: A protective covering for a broken bone.
Postoperative adj.: Relating to or occurring after a surgical operation.
Preoperative adj.: Relating to or occurring before a surgical operation.
Probe: A blunt-ended surgical instrument.
Procedure: An established or official way of doing something.
Recover v. / Recovery: To return to a normal state of health (v.) / A return to a normal state (n.).
Removal: The action of taking something away.
Repair: The action of restoring something.
Replacement: The action or process of replacing something.
Resection: The surgical removal of part of an organ or structure.
Retractor: A surgical instrument used to hold back the edges of a surgical incision.
Saline: A solution of salt in water.
Scalpel: A small, sharp-bladed instrument used for surgery.
Scar: A mark left on the skin after a wound has healed.
Scissors pl.: A cutting instrument.
Scrub up v.: To thoroughly wash one's hands and arms before surgery.
Shave v.: To remove hair with a razor.
Site: The place where something is located.
Soil v.: To make dirty.
Sphygmomanometer: An instrument for measuring blood pressure.
Splint: A device used to support and immobilize a broken bone or injured part.
Sponge: A piece of absorbent material.
Sterile adj. / Sterilize v.: Free from bacteria or other living microorganisms; totally clean (adj.) / To make free from bacteria (v.).
Stethoscope: An instrument for listening to internal sounds of the body.
Stitch n., v.: A loop of thread or yarn used to join parts of the body together after a wound or operation (n.) / To join with stitches (v.).
Stretcher: A framework for carrying sick, injured, or dead people.
Surgeon / Surgery: A medical practitioner qualified to practice surgery (n.) / The branch of medicine that deals with the treatment of injuries, diseases, and deformities by physical removal, repair, or readjustment of organs and tissues (n.).
Surgical adj.: Relating to or used in surgery.
Suture n., v.: A stitch or line of stitches joining two edges of a wound or incision (n.) / To stitch a wound (v.).
Swab: A piece of absorbent material used for cleaning wounds or applying medication.
Syringe: A medical instrument used for injecting or withdrawing fluids.
Tape: A narrow strip of material.
Technique: A skillful or efficient way of doing something.
Thermometer: An instrument for measuring temperature.
Tourniquet: A device for stopping the flow of blood through a vein or artery.
Transfusion: An act of transferring donated blood, blood products, or other fluid into the circulatory system.
Transplant n., v.: An operation in which an organ or tissue is transferred from one part of the body to another (n.) / To transfer an organ (v.).
Trolley: A small wheeled table or cart.
Tube: A long, hollow cylinder.
Undergo v.: To experience or be subjected to.
Vital signs: Measurements of the body's most basic functions, including temperature, pulse, respiration rate, and blood pressure.
Wheelchair: A chair fitted with wheels for use by people who cannot walk.
Wound: An injury to living tissue.
X-ray: An electromagnetic wave of high energy and very short wavelength, which is able to pass through many materials opaque to light.

Understanding the Human Body: Systems and Anatomy Terms

This section delves into the intricate terminology used to describe the human body, its systems, and anatomical parts, crucial for medical terminology glossary explanations.

General Human Body Terms

Abdomen / Abdominal adj.: The part of the body containing the digestive organs (n.) / Relating to the abdomen (adj.).
Adam's apple: A projection of the thyroid cartilage in the neck.
Ankle: The joint connecting the foot with the leg.
Anterior adj.: Nearer the front.
Arch: A curved structure.
Arm: The upper limb of the human body.
Armpit: The hollow under the arm where it joins the body.
Articulation: A joint or juncture between bones.
Axilla pl. -ae / Axillary adj.: The armpit (n.) / Relating to the armpit (adj.).
Back: The rear surface of the human body.
Belly: The abdomen.
Belly button: The navel.
Body: The whole physical structure of a human or animal.
Bone / Bony adj.: Any of the pieces of hard, whitish tissue making up the skeleton (n.) / Consisting of or resembling bone (adj.).
Bottom: The buttocks.
Breast: Either of the two soft, fleshy milk-producing organs on the chest of a woman.
Buttock: Either of the two fleshy halves of the human rump.
Calf: The fleshy part at the back of the leg below the knee.
Carpal adj.: Relating to the carpus (wrist bones).
Cavity: An empty space within a solid object.
Cell: The smallest structural and functional unit of an organism.
Cephalic adj.: Relating to the head.
Cervical adj.: Relating to the neck or cervix.
Cheek: The side of the face below the eye.
Chest: The front surface of the body from the neck to the abdomen.
Chin: The protruding part of the face below the mouth.
Dermal adj.: Relating to the skin.
Digit: A finger or toe.
Distal adj.: Situated away from the center of the body or from the point of attachment.
Dorsal adj. / Dorsum pl. -a: Relating to the back of the body or a body part (adj.) / The back of a body part (n.).
Ear: The organ of hearing.
Elbow: The joint between the forearm and the upper arm.
Extremity: A limb of the body.
Eye / Eyebrow / Eyelash / Eyelid: The organ of sight (n.) / The strip of hair above the eye (n.) / The fringe of hairs along the edge of the eyelid (n.) / Either of the two folds of skin that cover the eye (n.).
Face / Facial adj.: The front part of the head (n.) / Relating to the face (adj.).
Finger: One of the five digits of the hand.
Flesh: The soft substance of a body.
Foot pl. feet: The lower extremity of the leg (n.).
Forearm: The part of a person's arm from the elbow to the wrist.
Forehead: The part of the face above the eyebrows.
Front / Frontal adj.: The foremost part of something (n.) / Relating to the front (adj.).
Genitals pl.: The external sex organs.
Groin: The area between the abdomen and the thigh.
Hair: Any of the fine threadlike strands growing from the skin.
Hand: The end part of a person's arm beyond the wrist.
Head: The upper part of the human body.
Heel: The back part of the human foot.
Hip: The projection of the pelvis and upper thigh bone on each side of the body.
Inferior adj.: Lower in position.
Inguinal adj.: Relating to the groin.
Instep: The arched upper surface of the human foot between the toes and the ankle.
Jaw: The bony framework of the mouth.
Joint: A point where two or more bones meet.
Knee: The joint between the thigh and the lower leg.
Lateral adj.: Of or pertaining to the side.
Leg: Each of the limbs on which a person walks.
Limb: An arm or leg.
Lip: Either of the two fleshy folds surrounding the mouth.
Lower adj.: Situated below another part.
Mandible / Mandibular adj.: The jawbone (n.) / Relating to the mandible (adj.).
Medial adj.: Situated in the middle.
Mouth: The opening in the lower part of the human face.
Muscle / Muscular adj.: A band or bundle of fibrous tissue in a human or animal body that has the ability to contract (n.) / Relating to muscle (adj.).
Nail: A horny covering on the upper side of the end of a finger or toe.
Nape: The back of a person's neck.
Nasal adj.: Relating to the nose.
Navel: The belly button.
Neck: The part of a person's body connecting the head to the trunk.
Nipple: A small projection of a mammary gland.
Nose: The part of the face containing the nostrils.
Ocular adj.: Relating to the eye.
Organ: A part of an organism that is typically self-contained and has a specific vital function.
Orifice: An opening, especially one in the body.
Palm / Palmar adj.: The inner surface of the hand (n.) / Relating to the palm (adj.).
Pectoral adj.: Relating to the chest.
Pelvic adj. / Pelvis pl. -es, pelves: Relating to the pelvis (adj.) / The large bony framework near the base of the spine (n.).
Penis: The male external sexual organ.
Plantar adj.: Relating to the sole of the foot.
Posterior adj.: Further back in position.
Proximal adj.: Situated nearer to the center of the body or the point of attachment.
Scalp: The skin covering the human head.
Scrotum pl. -a: The pouch of skin containing the testicles.
Sense / Sensory adj.: Any of the faculties by which the body perceives an external stimulus (n.) / Relating to sensation (adj.).
Shin: The front of the leg below the knee.
Shoulder: The joint connecting the arm with the trunk.
Side: A position to the left or right of an object, place, or body.
Skin: The thin layer of tissue forming the natural outer covering of the body.
Sole: The underside of the foot.
Spinal adj. / Spine: Relating to the spine (adj.) / The backbone (n.).
Stomach: The internal organ in which the major part of the digestion of food occurs.
Superior adj.: Higher in position.
System: A set of connected things or parts forming a complex whole.
Thigh: The part of the human leg between the hip and the knee.
Thoracic adj. / Thorax: Relating to the thorax (adj.) / The chest (n.).
Throat: The passage leading from the mouth into the oesophagus and windpipe.
Thumb: The short, thick first digit of the human hand.
Tissue: Any of the distinct types of material of which animals or plants are made.
Toe: Any of the five digits at the end of the human foot.
Tongue: The fleshy muscular organ in the mouth, used for tasting, licking, and swallowing.
Tooth pl. teeth: Each of a set of hard, bony enamel-coated structures in the jaws (n.).
Trunk: The main part of the human body, not including the head, neck, and limbs.
Tummy: A child's word for stomach.
Umbilical adj. / Umbilicus: Relating to the navel or umbilical cord (adj.) / The navel (n.).
Upper adj.: Situated above another part.
Ventral adj.: Relating to the abdomen or front of the body.
Vulva pl. -ae: The female external genitals.
Waist: The part of the human body below the ribs and above the hips.
Wrist: The joint connecting the hand with the forearm.

Digestive System Terminology

The digestive system processes food. Here are key terms:

Absorb v. / Absorption: To take in nutrients (v.) / The process of taking in nutrients (n.).
Accessory adj.: Providing supplementary or additional help and support.
Acid n., adj.: A chemical substance (n.) / Having a sour taste or low pH (adj.).
Alimentary adj.: Relating to nourishment or sustenance.
Anal adj. / Anus: Relating to the anus (adj.) / The opening at the end of the alimentary canal (n.).
Appendicitis / Appendix pl. -es, appendices: Inflammation of the appendix (n.) / A small, finger-shaped organ (n.).
Appetite: A natural desire to satisfy a bodily need, especially for food.
Ascending adj.: Moving upwards.
Back passage: The anus.
Barium meal: A radiographic study of the upper gastrointestinal tract.
Bile: A digestive fluid produced by the liver.
Biliary adj.: Relating to bile or the bile ducts.
Bite n., v.: An act of biting (n.) / To cut or seize with the teeth (v.).
Bolus: A small rounded mass of a substance, especially of chewed food.
Bowel / Bowel movement: The intestine (n.) / The discharge of feces from the body (n.).
Break down v. / Breakdown: To decompose (v.) / The process of decomposition (n.).
Buccal adj.: Relating to the cheek or mouth.
Caecum* pl. -a: A pouch connecting the ileum to the colon.
Canal: A tubular passage or channel.
Carbohydrate: A compound of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, such as sugars and starches.
Chemical n., adj.: A substance formed by a chemical reaction (n.) / Relating to chemistry (adj.).
Chew v.: To masticate food.
Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder.
Cholesterol: A lipid found in the blood.
Chyme: The pulpy acidic fluid which passes from the stomach to the small intestine.
Colitis: Inflammation of the colon.
Colon pl. -s, cola / Colonoscopy: The large intestine (n.) / A procedure to examine the colon (n.).
Constipation: Difficulty in emptying the bowels.
Consume v. / Consumption: To eat or drink (v.) / The act of eating or drinking (n.).
Cramp: A painful, involuntary contraction of a muscle.
Curvature: A bending or curving.
Deglutition: The action or process of swallowing.
Descending adj.: Moving downwards.
Diabetes mellitus: A metabolic disease causing high blood sugar.
Diabetic n., adj.: A person with diabetes (n.) / Relating to diabetes (adj.).
Diarrhoea*: A condition in which feces are discharged from the bowels frequently and in a liquid form.
Diet / Dietary adj.: The kinds of food that a person, animal, or community habitually eats (n.) / Relating to diet (adj.).
Digest v. / Digestion / Digestive adj.: To break down food (v.) / The process of breaking down food (n.) / Relating to digestion (adj.).
Duct: A channel or tube for conveying a substance.
Duodenal adj. / Duodenum pl. -s, -a: Relating to the duodenum (adj.) / The first part of the small intestine (n.).
Dyspepsia: Indigestion.
Enzyme: A protein that acts as a catalyst in living organisms.
Faecal* adj. / Faeces* pl.: Relating to feces (adj.) / Waste matter discharged from the bowels (n.).
Fat: A natural oily or greasy substance.
Fibre*: Indigestible material in food.
Food: Any nutritious substance that people or animals eat or drink.
Gall bladder / Gallstone: A small organ that stores bile (n.) / A small, hard crystalline mass formed in the gallbladder (n.).
Gastric adj. / Gastritis: Relating to the stomach (adj.) / Inflammation of the stomach lining (n.).
Gastrointestinal adj.: Relating to the stomach and intestines.
Gland: An organ that secretes particular chemical substances.
Gullet: The oesophagus.
Gut: The digestive tract.
Haemorrhoids* pl.: Swollen veins in the rectum and anus.
Heartburn: A form of indigestion felt as a burning sensation in the chest.
Hepatic adj.: Relating to the liver.
Hydrochloric adj.: Relating to hydrochloric acid, found in the stomach.
Ileum pl. -a: The third portion of the small intestine.
Indigestion: Difficulty in digesting food.
Inflame v. / Inflammation / Inflammatory adj.: To provoke an inflammatory reaction (v.) / A localized physical condition characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain (n.) / Causing or relating to inflammation (adj.).
Ingest v. / Ingestion: To take food into the body (v.) / The process of taking food into the body (n.).
Insulin: A hormone that regulates blood sugar.
Intestinal adj. / Intestine: Relating to the intestine (adj.) / The digestive tract below the stomach (n.).
Jejunum pl. -s, -a: The part of the small intestine between the duodenum and ileum.
Juice: The liquid obtained from pressed fruit or vegetables.
Laxative n., adj.: A medicine used to relieve constipation (n.) / Relieving constipation (adj.).
Lingual adj.: Relating to the tongue.
Lining: A layer of material covering an inside surface.
Liver: A large glandular organ in the abdomen, involved in metabolism.
Mastication: Chewing.
Metabolic adj. / Metabolism: Relating to metabolism (adj.) / The chemical processes that occur within a living organism (n.).
Mineral n., adj.: A naturally occurring inorganic substance (n.) / Containing minerals (adj.).
Mouth: The opening in the lower part of the human face.
Nausea: A feeling of sickness with an inclination to vomit.
Nutrient / Nutrition: A substance that provides nourishment (n.) / The process of providing or obtaining food necessary for health and growth (n.).
Oesophageal* adj. / Oesophagus* pl. -es, -i: Relating to the oesophagus (adj.) / The tube connecting the pharynx to the stomach (n.).
Oral adj.: Taken by mouth.
Palate: The roof of the mouth.
Pancreas / Pancreatic adj. / Pancreatitis: A large gland behind the stomach that produces digestive enzymes and hormones (n.) / Relating to the pancreas (adj.) / Inflammation of the pancreas (n.).
Peptic adj.: Relating to digestion.
Peristalsis / Peristaltic adj.: The involuntary constriction and relaxation of the muscles of the intestine or other canal (n.) / Relating to peristalsis (adj.).
Peritoneal adj. / Peritoneum pl. -s, -a / Peritonitis: Relating to the peritoneum (adj.) / The membrane lining the abdominal cavity (n.) / Inflammation of the peritoneum (n.).
Pharyngeal adj. / Pharynx pl. -es, pharynges: Relating to the pharynx (adj.) / The part of the throat behind the mouth and nasal cavity (n.).
Piles pl.: Haemorrhoids.
Protein: An organic compound essential to living organisms.
Rectal adj. / Rectum pl. -s, -a: Relating to the rectum (adj.) / The final section of the large intestine (n.).
Reflux: A backward flow of fluid.
Regurgitation: The expulsion of material from the pharynx or oesophagus.
Roof: The upper inner surface of the mouth.
Saliva / Salivary adj.: Fluid secreted by glands in the mouth (n.) / Relating to saliva (adj.).
Secrete v. / Secretion / Secretory adj.: (Of a cell, gland, or organ) produce and discharge a substance (v.) / The process of secreting (n.) / Relating to secretion (adj.).
Sigmoid adj.: S-shaped (referring to the sigmoid colon).
Sphincter: A ring of muscle surrounding and serving to guard or close an opening or tube.
Starch: A carbohydrate found in plants.
Stomach: The internal organ in which the major part of the digestion of food occurs.
Stool(s): Feces.
Swallow v.: To cause food or drink to pass down the throat.
Taste n., v.: The sensation of flavor (n.) / To perceive the flavor of (v.).
Throat: The passage leading from the mouth into the oesophagus and windpipe.
Tongue: The fleshy muscular organ in the mouth.
Tooth pl. teeth: Each of a set of hard, bony enamel-coated structures in the jaws (n.).
Transverse adj.: Extending or lying across.
Tube: A long, hollow cylinder.
Ulcer / Ulcerative adj.: An open sore (n.) / Characterized by ulcers (adj.).
Villus pl. -i: A small vascular projection from the surface of a mucous membrane.
Vomit v.: To bring up food from the stomach.
Waste n., adj.: Unwanted or unusable material (n.) / Unwanted (adj.).

Circulatory System Terminology

Terms related to the heart, blood, and blood vessels are vital. This glossary provides crucial medical terminology definitions for students covering the circulatory system.

Anaemia*: A condition in which the blood is deficient in red blood cells.
Aneurysm: A localized, blood-filled balloon-like bulge in the wall of a blood vessel.
Angina: Chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart.
Aorta pl. -ae / Aortic adj.: The main artery of the body (n.) / Relating to the aorta (adj.).
Apex pl. -es, apices: The top or highest part of something, especially one forming a point.
Arrest: To stop or check.
Arrhythmia: An irregular heartbeat.
Arterial adj. / Arteriole / Artery: Relating to an artery (adj.) / A small artery (n.) / A blood vessel carrying oxygenated blood away from the heart (n.).
Atherosclerosis: A disease of the arteries characterized by plaque buildup.
Atrial adj. / Atrium pl. -a: Relating to an atrium (adj.) / An upper chamber of the heart (n.).
Attack n., v.: A sudden onset of illness (n.) / To start to affect (v.).
Base: The lowest part or edge of something, especially the part on which it rests or is supported.
Beat n., v.: A rhythmic pulsation (n.) / To pulsate (v.).
Bleed v.: To lose blood.
Blood / Blood cell / Bloodstream: The red liquid that circulates in the arteries and veins (n.) / Any of the cells found in blood (n.) / The circulating blood (n.).
Branch n., v.: A division of a system (n.) / To divide into branches (v.).
Capillary: A fine branching blood vessel.
Carbon dioxide: A gas exhaled by animals.
Cardiac adj.: Relating to the heart.
Cardiovascular adj.: Relating to the heart and blood vessels.
Chamber: A natural or artificial enclosed space or cavity.
Circulate v. / Circulation / Circulatory adj.: To move continuously through a closed system (v.) / The movement of blood around the body (n.) / Relating to circulation (adj.).
Clot n., v. / Clotting cell: A mass of coagulated blood (n.) / To coagulate (v.) / A cell involved in clotting (n.).
Coagulate v.: (Of a fluid, especially blood) change to a solid or semi-solid state.
Contract v. / Contraction: To become smaller or tighter (v.) / The process of contracting (n.).
Coronary adj.: Relating to the heart, especially the coronary arteries.
Deoxygenate v.: To remove oxygen from.
Diastole / Diastolic adj.: The phase of the heartbeat when the heart muscle relaxes and allows the chambers to fill with blood (n.) / Relating to diastole (adj.).
Electrocardiogram (ECG): A record or display of a person's heartbeat produced by an electrocardiograph.
Endocardium pl. -a: The thin, smooth membrane lining the inside of the heart.
Epicardium pl. -a: The outer layer of the heart.
Erythrocyte: A red blood cell.
Failure: The inability of an organ to function normally.
Fibrillation: Rapid, irregular, and unsynchronized contraction of muscle fibers.
Flow n., v.: The movement of a fluid (n.) / To move as a fluid (v.).
Haemoglobin*: A red protein responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood.
Haemorrhage*: An escape of blood from a ruptured blood vessel.
Haemostasis* pl. -ses: The stopping of a flow of blood.
Heart: A hollow muscular organ that pumps the blood through the circulatory system.
Hypertension: Abnormally high blood pressure.
Hypotension: Abnormally low blood pressure.
Infarction: The obstruction of the blood supply to an organ or region of tissue.
Inferior adj.: Lower in position.
Irregularity: A lack of smoothness or evenness.
Leukaemia*: A malignant progressive disease in which the bone marrow and other blood-forming organs produce increased numbers of immature or abnormal leukocytes.
Leukocyte: A white blood cell.
Lung: Either of the two organs in the chest through which people and animals breathe.
Membrane: A thin pliable sheet of tissue or other material.
Mitral adj.: Relating to the mitral valve of the heart.
Muscle: A band or bundle of fibrous tissue in a human or animal body that has the ability to contract.
Myocardial adj. / Myocardium pl. -a: Relating to the heart muscle (adj.) / The heart muscle (n.).
Nutrient: A substance that provides nourishment.
Oxygen / Oxygenate v.: A colorless, odorless reactive gas, essential for respiration (n.) / To supply, treat, or enrich with oxygen (v.).
Pericardium pl. -a: The membrane enclosing the heart.
Plasma: The colorless fluid part of blood.
Platelet: A small, colorless disk-shaped cell fragment without a nucleus, found in large numbers in blood and involved in clotting.
Pressure: The continuous physical force exerted on or against an object by something in contact with it.
Pulmonary adj.: Relating to the lungs.
Pulse: The rhythmic throbbing of arteries as blood is pumped through them.
Pump n., v.: A mechanical device using suction or pressure to raise or move liquids (n.) / To move liquids this way (v.).
Rate: A measure, quantity, or frequency.
Relax v. / Relaxation: To become less tense (v.) / The state of being relaxed (n.).
Rhythm: A strong, regular, repeated pattern of movement or sound.
Septum pl. -a: A dividing wall or membrane, especially between bodily spaces or masses of soft tissue.
Serum pl. -a: An amber-colored protein-rich liquid which separates out when blood coagulates.
Superior adj.: Higher in position.
Supply n., v.: A stock of a resource from which a person or place can be provided with the necessary amount (n.) / To provide (v.).
Systemic adj.: Relating to or affecting the entire body.
Systole / Systolic adj.: The phase of the heartbeat when the heart muscle contracts and pumps blood (n.) / Relating to systole (adj.).
Thrombocyte: A platelet.
Thrombosis pl. -ses / Thrombus pl. -i: Local coagulation or clotting of the blood in a part of the circulatory system (n.) / A blood clot formed in situ within the vascular system (n.).
Tricuspid adj.: Having three cusps (referring to the tricuspid valve).
Valve: A membranous fold or flap that controls the flow of blood.
Valvular adj.: Relating to a valve.
Vascular adj.: Relating to or containing blood vessels.
Vein: A blood vessel carrying deoxygenated blood towards the heart.
Vena cava pl. venae cavae: A large vein carrying deoxygenated blood to the heart.
Venous adj.: Relating to a vein.
Ventricle: A lower chamber of the heart.
Venule: A very small vein.
Vessel: A tube or canal for conveying a body fluid.
Wall: A continuous upright structure that encloses or divides an area.
Waste n., v., adj.: Unwanted or unusable material (n.) / To use or expend carelessly (v.) / Unwanted (adj.).

Respiratory System Terminology

Respiration involves the intake of oxygen and release of carbon dioxide. Key terms include:

Air: The invisible gaseous substance surrounding the Earth.
Airway: The passage by which air reaches a person's lungs.
Alveolar adj. / Alveolus pl. -i: Relating to alveoli (adj.) / A tiny air sac in the lungs (n.).
Apnoea*: Temporary cessation of breathing.
Asthma: A respiratory condition marked by spasms in the bronchi of the lungs.
Breath / Breathe v.: The air inhaled or exhaled (n.) / To take air into and expel it from the lungs (v.).
Breathless adj. / Breathlessness: Unable to breathe easily (adj.) / The state of being breathless (n.).
Bronchial adj. / Bronchiole / Bronchitis / Bronchus pl. -i: Relating to the bronchi (adj.) / A small airway in the lungs (n.) / Inflammation of the bronchi (n.) / A major airway of the respiratory system (n.).
Carbon dioxide: A gas exhaled by animals.
Cavity: An empty space within a solid object.
Cilium pl. -a: A short, eyelash-like filament.
Cough n., v. / Cough up v.: A sudden, forceful expulsion of air from the lungs (n.) / To expel air this way (v.) / To bring up phlegm by coughing (v.).
Diaphragm / Diaphragmatic adj.: A muscular partition separating the thorax from the abdomen (n.) / Relating to the diaphragm (adj.).
Dyspnoea*: Difficult or labored breathing.
Effusion: An escape of fluid into a body cavity.
Emphysema: A condition in which the air sacs of the lungs are damaged and enlarged.
Epiglottis pl. -es, -ides: A flap of cartilage at the root of the tongue, which is depressed during swallowing to cover the opening of the windpipe.
Exhalation / Exhale v.: The process of breathing out (n.) / To breathe out (v.).
Expiration / Expire v.: The act of breathing out (n.) / To breathe out (v.).
Flow n., v.: The movement of a fluid (n.) / To move as a fluid (v.).
Gas: An air-like fluid substance.
Haemoptysis*: The coughing up of blood.
Hay fever: An allergic reaction to pollen.
Inhalation / Inhale v.: The action of inhaling (n.) / To breathe in (v.).
Inspiration / Inspire v.: The act of breathing in (n.) / To breathe in (v.).
Laryngeal adj. / Larynx pl. -es, larynges: Relating to the larynx (adj.) / The voice box (n.).
Lobe: A rounded projection or division, especially of a bodily organ such as the lung or brain.
Lung: Either of the two organs in the chest through which people and animals breathe.
Mediastinum pl. -a: The region between the lungs.
Membrane: A thin pliable sheet of tissue or other material.
Mucous adj. / Mucus: Relating to or secreting mucus (adj.) / A slimy substance secreted by mucous membranes (n.).
Naris pl. nares / Nasal adj.: A nostril (n.) / Relating to the nose (adj.).
Nasopharynx: The upper part of the pharynx, behind the nasal cavity.
Nose / Nostril: The part of the face containing the nostrils (n.) / Either of the two external openings of the nasal cavity (n.).
Orthopnoea*: Shortness of breath that occurs when lying flat.
Oxygen: A colorless, odorless reactive gas, essential for respiration.
Parietal adj.: Relating to the walls of a cavity.
Passage: A channel or airway.
Pharyngeal adj. / Pharynx pl. -es, pharynges: Relating to the pharynx (adj.) / The part of the throat behind the mouth and nasal cavity (n.).
Phlegm: Mucus expelled from the respiratory tract.
Pleura pl. -as, -ae / Pleural adj.: The membrane lining the lungs and chest cavity (n.) / Relating to the pleura (adj.).
Pneumonia: Lung inflammation caused by bacterial or viral infection.
Pneumothorax: The presence of air or gas in the cavity between the lungs and the chest wall, causing collapse of the lung.
Pneumococcus pl. -cocci: A bacterium that causes pneumonia.
Pulmonary adj.: Relating to the lungs.
Rate: A measure of frequency.
Respiration / Respiratory adj. / Respire v.: The action of breathing (n.) / Relating to respiration (adj.) / To breathe (v.).
Sac: A bag-like or bladder-like part of an animal or plant.
Septum pl. -a: A dividing wall or membrane.
Shallow adj.: Of little depth.
Shortness of breath / Short of breath adj.: The state of being unable to breathe easily (n.) / Unable to breathe easily (adj.).
Sinus: A cavity within a bone or other tissue.
Sputum pl. -a: A mixture of saliva and mucus coughed up from the respiratory tract.
Throat: The passage leading from the mouth into the oesophagus and windpipe.
Trachea pl. -as, -ae / Tracheal adj.: The windpipe (n.) / Relating to the trachea (adj.).
Tuberculosis: An infectious bacterial disease affecting the lungs.
Ventilation: The provision of fresh air to a room, building, or patient.
Visceral adj.: Relating to the internal organs.
Vocal cords pl. / Vocal folds pl.: Folds of tissue in the larynx that vibrate to produce sound.
Voice box: The larynx.
Wheeze n., v.: A whistling sound made by the lungs (n.) / To make a wheezing sound (v.).
Windpipe: The trachea.

Musculoskeletal System Terminology

This section covers the bones, muscles, joints, and connective tissues.

Ankle: The joint connecting the foot with the leg.
Arthritis: Inflammation of a joint.
Articular adj. / Articulation: Relating to a joint (adj.) / A joint or juncture between bones (n.).
Atrophy: (Of body tissue or an organ) waste away, especially as a result of the degeneration of cells.
Backbone: The vertebral column.
Biceps: A muscle with two heads or points of origin.
Bone / Bony adj.: Any of the pieces of hard, whitish tissue making up the skeleton (n.) / Consisting of or resembling bone (adj.).
Breastbone: The sternum.
Calcium: A mineral essential for bone health.
Cancellous adj.: Having a porous or spongy structure.
Cartilage: Firm, elastic, whitish connective tissue.
Clavicle: The collarbone.
Coccyx pl. -es, coccyges: A small triangular bone at the base of the spinal column.
Collarbone: The clavicle.
Compact adj.: Densely packed together.
Connective tissue: Tissue that connects, supports, or separates other tissues.
Contract v. / Contraction: To become smaller or tighter (v.) / The process of contracting (n.).
Costal adj.: Relating to the ribs.
Coxa pl. -ae: The hip bone.
Cranium pl. -s, -a: The skull.
Diaphysis pl. -es: The shaft of a long bone.
Dislocation: Displacement of a bone from a joint.
Dystrophy: A disorder in which an organ or tissue of the body wastes away.
Elbow: The joint between the forearm and the upper arm.
Epiphysis pl. -es: The end part of a long bone, initially growing separately from the shaft.
Extension: The act of straightening a limb.
Femur pl. -s, femora: The thighbone.
Fibre: A thread or filament from which a vegetable tissue, mineral substance, or textile is formed.
Fibula pl. -ae: The outer and smaller of the two bones between the knee and ankle.
Flexion: The action of bending or the condition of being bent, especially the bending of a limb or joint.
Fracture: A break in a bone.
Girdle: A structure that encircles the body, e.g., shoulder girdle.
Haematopoiesis*: The production of all types of blood cells.
Hip: The joint connecting the leg with the trunk.
Humerus pl. -es, -i: The bone of the upper arm.
Ilium pl. -a: The large broad bone forming the upper part of each half of the pelvis.
Immovable adj.: Not able to be moved.
Insertion: The place or point at which a muscle, ligament, etc., is attached to the bone or other body part that it moves.
Involuntary adj.: Done without conscious control.
Joint: A point where two or more bones meet.
Kneecap: The patella.
Ligament: A short band of tough, flexible, fibrous connective tissue which connects two bones or cartilages or holds together a joint.
Locomotion / Locomotor adj.: Movement or the ability to move from one place to another (n.) / Relating to locomotion (adj.).
Mandible: The jawbone.
Marrow: A soft fatty substance in the cavities of bones.
Maxilla pl. -s, -ae: The upper jawbone.
Medulla / Medullary adj.: The inner part of an organ or tissue (n.) / Relating to the medulla (adj.).
Meniscus pl. -es, -i: A crescent-shaped cartilage in the knee.
Metaphysis pl. -ses: The wide portion of a long bone between the epiphysis and the narrow diaphysis.
Muscle / Muscular adj.: A band or bundle of fibrous tissue in a human or animal body that has the ability to contract (n.) / Relating to muscle (adj.).
Osseous adj.: Composed of or resembling bone.
Ossification: The process of bone formation.
Osteocyte: A bone cell.
Osteoporosis: A medical condition in which the bones become brittle and fragile.
Patella pl. -s, -ae: The kneecap.
Pectoral n., adj.: A muscle of the chest (n.) / Relating to the chest (adj.).
Pelvic adj. / Pelvis pl. -es, pelves: Relating to the pelvis (adj.) / The large bony framework near the base of the spine (n.).
Periosteum pl. -a: A dense layer of vascular connective tissue enveloping the bones.
Phalanx pl. -es, phalanges: A bone of the finger or toe.
Radius pl. -i: The bone of the forearm on the thumb side.
Relax v. / Relaxation: To become less tense (v.) / The state of being relaxed (n.).
Rheumatoid adj.: Relating to rheumatoid arthritis.
Rib / Rib cage: A curved bone forming part of the rib cage (n.) / The bony framework enclosing the chest (n.).
Sacrum pl. -a: A triangular bone at the base of the spine.
Scapula pl. -s, -ae: The shoulder blade.
Shaft: The main part of a long bone.
Shinbone: The tibia.
Shoulder / Shoulder blade: The joint connecting the arm with the trunk (n.) / The scapula (n.).
Skeletal adj. / Skeleton: Relating to the skeleton (adj.) / The framework of bones supporting a body (n.).
Skull: A bony framework enclosing the brain.
Smooth adj.: Having an even, regular surface.
Spasm: A sudden involuntary muscular contraction.
Spinal adj. / Spinal column / Spine: Relating to the spine (adj.) / The backbone (n.) / The backbone (n.).
Spongy adj.: Having a soft, porous, and compressible texture.
Sprain n., v.: A wrench or twist of the ligaments of a joint (n.) / To wrench a joint (v.).
Sternal adj. / Sternum pl. -s, -a: Relating to the sternum (adj.) / The breastbone (n.).
Striated adj.: (Of muscle tissue) having stripes or striae.
Suture: A type of immovable joint between bones of the skull.
Synovial adj.: Relating to synovial fluid or joints.
Tendon / Tendonitis: A flexible but inelastic cord of strong fibrous collagen tissue attaching a muscle to a bone (n.) / Inflammation of a tendon (n.).
Thighbone: The femur.
Tibia pl. -s, -ae: The inner and larger of the two bones between the knee and ankle.
Triceps: A muscle having three points of attachment at one end.
Ulna pl. -s, -ae: The bone of the forearm on the side opposite the thumb.
Vertebra pl. -s, -ae / Vertebral adj. / Vertebral column: Each of the series of small bones forming the backbone (n.) / Relating to vertebrae (adj.) / The backbone (n.).
Voluntary adj.: Done, given, or acting of one's own free will.
Wrist: The joint connecting the hand with the forearm.

Urinary and Reproductive Systems Terminology

These systems are crucial for waste elimination and reproduction.

Abortion: The deliberate termination of a human pregnancy.
Adrenal n., adj.: Either of two endocrine glands above the kidneys (n.) / Relating to the adrenal glands (adj.).
Anuria: Failure of the kidneys to produce urine.
Birth control: The practice of preventing unwanted pregnancies.
Bladder: A membranous sac in animals that serves as a receptacle for a fluid or gas.
Bowman's capsule: A cup-shaped sack at the beginning of the tubular component of a nephron.
Calculus pl. -i: A small stone, especially in the gallbladder or kidney.
Catheter / Catheterize v.: A flexible tube inserted into the body to drain fluids or inject them (n.) / To insert a catheter (v.).
Cervical adj. / Cervix pl. -es, cervices: Relating to the cervix (adj.) / The narrow necklike passage forming the lower end of the uterus (n.).
Clitoris pl. -es, clitorides: A small sensitive part of the female genitals.
Colic: Severe pain in the abdomen.
Conception: The action of conceiving a child or of a child being conceived.
Contraception / Contraceptive n., adj.: The deliberate prevention of conception or pregnancy (n.) / A device or drug serving to prevent pregnancy (n.) / Preventing pregnancy (adj.).
Cortex pl. -es, cortices: The outer layer of an organ.
Cycle: A series of events that are regularly repeated in the same order.
Cystic adj. / Cystitis / Cystoscopy: Relating to a cyst (adj.) / Inflammation of the bladder (n.) / Visual examination of the bladder (n.).
Dialysis pl. -es: The separation of particles in a liquid on the basis of differences in their ability to pass through a membrane.
Donor: A person who gives blood or an organ for transfusion or transplantation.
Drain v.: To draw off liquid.
Dysmenorrhoea*: Painful menstruation.
Dysuria: Painful or difficult urination.
Egg: An ovum.
Ejaculate v. / Ejaculatory duct: To eject semen (v.) / A duct through which semen is ejaculated (n.).
Embryo / Embryonic adj.: An unborn or unhatched offspring (n.) / Relating to an embryo (adj.).
Empty v.: To remove all the contents of.
Endometrium pl. -a: The mucous membrane lining the uterus.
Epididymis pl. epididymides: A highly convoluted duct behind the testis, in which sperm mature.
Erectile adj. / Erection: (Of tissue) capable of becoming rigid and swollen when filled with blood (adj.) / The process of becoming erect (n.).
Expel v.: To force out or eject.
Failure: The inability of an organ to function normally.
Fallopian tube: Either of a pair of tubes along which eggs travel from the ovaries to the uterus.
Fertility / Fertilize v.: The ability to conceive children or young (n.) / To cause to become pregnant (v.).
F(o)etal adj. / F(o)etus: Relating to a fetus (adj.) / An unborn offspring (n.).
Filter v.: To pass a liquid or gas through a filter.
Fluid n., adj.: A substance that flows freely (n.) / Capable of flowing (adj.).
Follicle: A small secretory cavity, sac, or gland.
Foreskin: The retractable roll of skin covering the end of the penis.
Genital n., adj. / Genitalia pl.: Relating to the reproductive organs (n.) / The external reproductive organs (n.).
Genitourinary adj.: Relating to the genital and urinary organs.
Gland: An organ that secretes particular chemical substances.
Glans: The rounded head of the penis or clitoris.
Glomerular adj. / Glomerulus pl. -i: Relating to a glomerulus (adj.) / A cluster of capillaries around the end of a kidney tubule (n.).
Gonorrhoea*: A sexually transmitted bacterial infection.
Gynaecologist* / Gynaecology*: A specialist in gynaecology (n.) / The branch of physiology and medicine which deals with the functions and diseases specific to women and girls (n.).
Haematuria*: The presence of blood in urine.
Hormone: A regulatory substance produced in an organism and transported in tissue fluids.
Hysterectomy: A surgical operation to remove the uterus.
Incontinence: Lack of voluntary control over urination or defecation.
Intercourse: Sexual contact between individuals.
Intrauterine adj.: Situated or occurring in the uterus.
Kidney: Either of a pair of organs in the abdominal cavity of mammals, birds, and reptiles, excreting urine.
Labia majora pl. / Labia minora pl.: The larger and smaller outer folds of the vulva.
Leak v. / Leakage: To escape from a container or covering through a hole or crack (v.) / The action or result of leaking (n.).
Lining: A layer of material covering an inside surface.
Medulla pl. -s, -ae: The inner part of an organ or tissue.
Menstrual adj. / Menstruation: Relating to menstruation (adj.) / The process in a woman of discharging blood and other material from the lining of the uterus at intervals of about one lunar month from puberty until the menopause (n.).
Micturition: The action of urinating.
Nephron: The functional unit of the kidney.
Nocturia: Urination at night.
Oestrogen*: A group of steroid hormones that promote the development and maintenance of female characteristics.
Oocyte: An immature female germ cell.
Oophoron pl. oophora: An ovary.
Ovarian adj. / Ovary: Relating to an ovary (adj.) / A female reproductive organ (n.).
Oviduct: The Fallopian tube.
Ovulate v. / Ovum pl. -a: To release an egg (v.) / A female reproductive cell (n.).
Pass water v.: To urinate.
Pelvis pl. -es, pelves: The large bony framework near the base of the spine.
Penile adj. / Penis pl. -es, penes: Relating to the penis (adj.) / The male external sexual organ (n.).
Period: A menstrual period.
Polyuria: The production of abnormally large volumes of dilute urine.
Pregnancy / Pregnant adj.: The condition of being pregnant (n.) / (Of a woman or female animal) having a baby or young developing in the uterus (adj.).
Progesterone: A steroid hormone released by the corpus luteum that stimulates the uterus to prepare for pregnancy.
Prostate (gland) / Prostatic adj.: A gland surrounding the urethra in males (n.) / Relating to the prostate (adj.).
Recipient: A person who receives something.
Rejection: The act of rejecting something.
Renal adj.: Relating to the kidneys.
Reproduce v. / Reproduction / Reproductive adj.: To produce offspring (v.) / The process of producing offspring (n.) / Relating to reproduction (adj.).
Retention: The continued possession, use, or control of something.
Salpinx pl. -ges: A Fallopian tube.
Scrotum pl. -s, -a: The pouch of skin containing the testicles.
Semen: The male reproductive fluid.
Seminal vesicle: Either of a pair of glands which open into the vas deferens near its junction with the urethra and secrete many of the components of semen.
Sexually transmitted disease (STD): An infection transmitted through sexual contact.
Shed v.: To cast off or lose.
Sperm pl. sperm / Sperm duct: The male reproductive cell (n.) / The vas deferens (n.).
Spermatozoon pl. spermatozoa: A mature male germ cell.
Stone: A calculus, often in the kidney or bladder.
Syphilis: A chronic bacterial disease, usually sexually transmitted.
Testicle / Testicular adj. / Testis pl. testes: A male reproductive organ (n.) / Relating to the testicle (adj.) / A testicle (n.).
Testosterone: A steroid hormone that stimulates development of male secondary sexual characteristics.
Transplant n., v.: An operation in which an organ or tissue is transferred (n.) / To transfer an organ (v.).
Tube: A long, hollow cylinder.
Tubule: A small tube.
Uraemia*: A condition involving abnormally high levels of waste products in the blood.
Urea: A colorless crystalline compound that is the main nitrogenous breakdown product of protein metabolism in mammals and is excreted in urine.
Ureter / Ureteral adj. / Ureteric adj.: The duct by which urine passes from the kidney to the bladder (n.) / Relating to the ureter (adj.) / Relating to the ureter (adj.).
Urethra / Urethral adj.: The duct by which urine is conveyed out of the body from the bladder (n.) / Relating to the urethra (adj.).
Urinalysis pl. -es: The analysis of urine.
Urinary adj. / Urinate v. / Urination / Urine: Relating to urine (adj.) / To excrete urine (v.) / The act of urinating (n.) / The watery, typically yellowish fluid that is stored in the bladder and discharged through the urethra (n.).
Urogenital adj.: Relating to the urinary and genital organs.
Urologist / Urology: A specialist in urology (n.) / The branch of medicine dealing with the urinary system (n.).
Uterine adj. / Uterine tube / Uterus pl. -es, -i: Relating to the uterus (adj.) / A Fallopian tube (n.) / The womb (n.).
Vagina pl. -s, -ae / Vaginal adj.: The muscular tube leading from the external genitals to the cervix (n.) / Relating to the vagina (adj.).
Void v.: To empty (the bowels or bladder).
Vulva pl. -s, -ae: The female external genitals.
Waste n., adj.: Unwanted or unusable material (n.) / Unwanted (adj.).
Womb: The uterus.

Nervous System Terminology

The nervous system controls and coordinates body activities. Here are important terms.

Afferent adj.: Conducting inwards or towards something.
Alzheimer's disease: A progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects memory, thinking, and behavior.
Autonomic adj.: (Of a bodily function) involuntary.
Axon: The long threadlike part of a nerve cell along which impulses are conducted from the cell body to other cells.
Basal adj.: Forming or belonging to a base or foundation.
Brain / Brain stem: An organ of soft nervous tissue functioning as the coordinating center of sensation and intellectual and nervous activity (n.) / The central trunk of the mammalian brain (n.).
Branch n., v.: A division of a system (n.) / To divide into branches (v.).
Bundle: A collection of things or parts.
Central adj.: Of or in the center.
Cerebellar adj. / Cerebellum pl. -s, -a: Relating to the cerebellum (adj.) / The part of the brain at the back of the skull (n.).
Cerebral adj. / Cerebrospinal fluid / Cerebrovascular adj. / Cerebrum pl. -s, -a: Relating to the cerebrum (adj.) / The fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord (n.) / Relating to the brain and its blood vessels (adj.) / The largest part of the brain (n.).
Conduct v.: To transmit a signal.
Conscious adj. / Consciousness: Aware of and responding to one's surroundings (adj.) / The state of being aware (n.).
Convey v.: To transport or transmit.
Cortex / Cortex pl. -es, cortices: The outer layer of the cerebrum.
Cranial adj.: Relating to the cranium or head.
Dementia: A chronic or persistent disorder of the mental processes.
Dendrite: A short branched extension of a nerve cell, along which impulses received from other cells at synapses are transmitted to the cell body.
Diencephalon pl. -s, diencephala: The posterior part of the forebrain.
Disorder: A disruption of normal physical or mental functions.
Efferent adj.: Conducting outwards or away from something.
Electric(al) adj.: Relating to electricity.
Electroencephalogram (EEG): A test used to detect electrical activity in the brain.
Encephalic adj. / Encephalitis / Encephalon pl. -s, encephalia / Encephalopathy: Relating to the brain (adj.) / Inflammation of the brain (n.) / The brain (n.) / Any brain disease (n.).
Epilepsy / Epileptic adj.: A neurological disorder marked by sudden recurrent episodes of sensory disturbance, loss of consciousness, or convulsions (n.) / Relating to epilepsy (adj.).
Fibre*: A thread or filament (e.g., nerve fiber).
Frontal adj.: Relating to the front of the brain.
Ganglion pl. ganglia: A structure containing a number of nerve cell bodies.
Grey matter: The darker tissue of the brain and spinal cord.
Hemisphere: A half of the cerebrum.
Homeostasis: The tendency toward a relatively stable equilibrium between interdependent elements, especially as maintained by physiological processes.
Hypothalamus pl. -i: A region of the forebrain controlling hunger, thirst, and body temperature.
Impulse: An electrical signal transmitted along a nerve fiber.
Lobe: A rounded projection or division of an organ (e.g., brain lobe).
Memory: The faculty by which the mind stores and remembers information.
Meningitis / Meninx pl. meninges: Inflammation of the meninges (n.) / The membranes enclosing the brain and spinal cord (n.).
Mental adj.: Relating to the mind.
Message: A communication sent or delivered.
Midbrain: A small central part of the brainstem.
Motor adj.: Relating to muscular movement.
Multiple sclerosis: A chronic, typically progressive disease involving damage to the myelin sheaths of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
Myelin: A fatty substance that forms a protective sheath around nerve fibers.
Nerve / Nervous adj.: A fiber or bundle of fibers that transmits impulses of sensation and motion (n.) / Relating to the nerves (adj.).
Neural adj.: Relating to a nerve or the nervous system.
Neurodegenerative adj.: Causing progressive loss of function or death of neurons.
Neuroglia pl.: Non-neuronal cells of the nervous system.
Neurology / Neuron, neurone / Neuropathy / Neurosurgery: The study of the nervous system (n.) / A nerve cell (n.) / Disease or dysfunction of one or more peripheral nerves (n.) / Surgery of the nervous system (n.).
Neurotransmitter: A chemical substance that transmits nerve impulses.
Nucleus pl. -i: A central part of a cell.
Occipital adj.: Relating to the back of the head.
Palsy: Paralysis, especially that which is accompanied by involuntary tremors.
Paralyse* v. / Paralysis: To make unable to move (v.) / The loss of the ability to move (n.).
Parasympathetic adj.: Relating to the part of the autonomic nervous system that counteracts the effects of the sympathetic nervous system.
Parietal adj.: Relating to the upper back part of the brain.
Parkinson's disease: A progressive nervous system disorder affecting movement.
Pathway: A route or course along which something may be taken.
Peripheral adj.: Relating to the outer edges of the body.
Pituitary n., adj.: A small gland at the base of the brain (n.) / Relating to the pituitary gland (adj.).
Polio(myelitis): A viral disease that can cause paralysis.
Pons pl. pontes: Part of the brainstem.
Receptor: A cell or nerve ending that responds to a stimulus.
Reflex: An involuntary and almost instantaneous movement in response to a stimulus.
Seizure: A sudden attack of illness, especially a stroke or an epileptic fit.
Sensation: A physical feeling or perception.
Sense / Sensory adj.: Any of the faculties by which the body perceives an external stimulus (n.) / Relating to sensation (adj.).
Sheath: A covering or casing.
Signal n., v.: A gesture, sound, or action conveying information (n.) / To convey information (v.).
Somatic adj.: Relating to the body.
Spinal adj. / Spinal cord: Relating to the spine (adj.) / The cord of nervous tissue extending from the brain (n.).
Stimulus pl. -i: A thing that rouses activity or energy in someone or something.
Stroke: A sudden disabling attack caused by an interruption of blood flow to the brain.
Sympathetic adj.: Relating to the part of the autonomic nervous system that prepares the body for stress.
Synapse: A junction between two nerve cells.
Temporal adj.: Relating to the temple region of the brain.
Thalamus pl. -i: A structure in the brain involved in sensory and motor signal relay.
Transmit v.: To pass something from one place or person to another.
White matter: The paler tissue of the brain and spinal cord.

Senses Terminology

This section describes the organs and processes involved in perception.

Accommodation: The process by which the eye changes optical power to maintain a clear image.
Aqueous humour*: The clear fluid filling the space in front of the eyeball between the lens and the cornea.
Audition / Auditory adj.: The sense or power of hearing (n.) / Relating to hearing (adj.).
Auricle: The external part of the ear.
Balance: An even distribution of weight enabling someone or something to remain upright and steady.
Bitter adj.: Having a sharp, pungent taste.
Blind adj., v. / Blindness / Blind spot: Unable to see (adj.) / The state of being blind (n.) / An area of the retina without photoreceptors (n.).
Cataract: A medical condition in which the lens of the eye becomes progressively opaque.
Cerumen: Earwax.
Choroid: The pigmented vascular layer of the eyeball.
Ciliary body: A part of the eye that includes the ciliary muscle, which controls the shape of the lens.
Cochlea pl. -s, -ae: The spiral cavity of the inner ear, containing the organ of Corti, which produces nerve impulses in response to sound vibrations.
Cold n., adj.: A common viral infection of the nose and throat (n.) / Having a low temperature (adj.).
Cone: A photoreceptor cell in the retina, responsible for color vision.
Conjunctiva pl. -s, -ae / Conjunctivitis: The mucous membrane that lines the inside of the eyelids and covers the sclera (n.) / Inflammation of the conjunctiva (n.).
Constrict v.: To make narrower or tighter.
Contact: The state of physical touching.
Cornea pl. -s, -ae: The transparent front part of the eye that covers the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber.
Deaf adj. / Deafness: Lacking the power of hearing (adj.) / The condition of being deaf (n.).
Defect: An imperfection or shortcoming.
Dilate v.: To make or become wider, larger, or more open.
Diplopia: Double vision.
Drop: A small quantity of liquid.
Ear / Ear canal / Eardrum / Earwax: The organ of hearing (n.) / The passage leading to the eardrum (n.) / The tympanic membrane (n.) / Cerumen (n.).
Eustachian tube: A narrow passage leading from the pharynx to the cavity of the middle ear, permitting the equalization of pressure on either side of the eardrum.
Eye / Eyeball / Eyebrow / Eyelash / Eyelid: The organ of sight (n.) / The globe of the eye (n.) / The strip of hair above the eye (n.) / The fringe of hairs along the edge of the eyelid (n.) / Either of the two folds of skin that cover the eye (n.).
Fovea pl. -ae: A small depression in the retina of the eye where visual acuity is highest.
Glaucoma: A condition of increased pressure within the eyeball.
Gustation / Gustatory adj.: The action or faculty of tasting (n.) / Relating to the sense of taste (adj.).
Hearing: The faculty of perceiving sounds.
Heat: The quality of being hot.
Hyperopia: Farsightedness.
Impairment: A weakness or damage.
Impulse: An electrical signal transmitted along a nerve fiber.
Incus pl. incudes: The anvil-shaped bone in the middle ear.
Iris pl. -es, -des: The colored part of the eye.
Labyrinth: The intricate connecting cavities of the inner ear.
Lacrimal adj.: Relating to tears.
Lens: A transparent biconvex structure in the eye that, along with the cornea, helps to refract light to be focused on the retina.
Longsightedness: Hyperopia.
Loss: The fact or process of losing something or someone.
Malleus pl. -i: The hammer-shaped bone in the middle ear.
Myopia: Nearsightedness.
Nasal adj.: Relating to the nose.
Nose / Nostril: The part of the face containing the nostrils (n.) / Either of the two external openings of the nasal cavity (n.).
Numb adj. / Numbness: Deprived of feeling or responsiveness (adj.) / The state of being numb (n.).
Ocular adj.: Relating to the eye.
Olfaction / Olfactory adj.: The action or capacity of smelling (n.) / Relating to the sense of smell (adj.).
Ophthalmic adj. / Ophthalmology: Relating to the eye and its diseases (adj.) / The study of the eye and its diseases (n.).
Optic disc / Optic nerve: The blind spot in the eye (n.) / The nerve that transmits impulses from the retina to the brain (n.).
Orbit: The bony cavity containing the eyeball.
Ossicle: A very small bone, especially one of those in the middle ear.
Otic adj.: Relating to the ear.
Otitis: Inflammation of the ear.
Otorrhoea*: Discharge from the ear.
Pain: An unpleasant physical sensation.
Perceive v. / Perception: To become aware of (v.) / The ability to see, hear, or become aware of something through the senses (n.).
Pinna: The outer visible part of the ear.
Pressure: The continuous physical force exerted on or against an object by something in contact with it.
Pupil: The opening in the center of the iris.
Receptor: A cell or nerve ending that responds to a stimulus.
Refract v.: (Of water, air, or glass) make (a ray of light) change direction when it enters at an angle.
Respond v. / Response: To react (v.) / A reaction (n.).
Retina pl. -s, -ae: A layer at the back of the eyeball sensitive to light.
Rhinitis: Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nose.
Rod: A photoreceptor cell in the retina, responsible for vision at low light levels.
Salty adj.: Tasting of salt.
Sclera pl. -s, -ae: The white outer layer of the eyeball.
Sensation: A physical feeling or perception.
Sense / Sensory adj.: Any of the faculties by which the body perceives an external stimulus (n.) / Relating to sensation (adj.).
Septum pl. -s, -a: A dividing wall or membrane.
Shortsightedness: Myopia.
Sight: The faculty or power of seeing.
Skin: The thin layer of tissue forming the natural outer covering of the body.
Smell n., v.: The faculty or power of perceiving odors (n.) / To perceive odors (v.).
Sneeze n., v.: A sudden involuntary expulsion of air from the nose and mouth (n.) / To expel air this way (v.).
Sour adj.: Having an acidic taste.
Squint n., v.: A condition in which the eyes do not align properly (n.) / To have a squint (v.).
Stapes pl. stapedes: The stirrup-shaped bone in the middle ear.
Stimulus pl. -i: A thing that rouses activity or energy in someone or something.
Strabismus: Squint.
Sweet adj.: Having the pleasant taste of sugar.
Tactile adj.: Relating to the sense of touch.
Taste / Taste bud: The sensation of flavor (n.) / A sensory organ on the tongue for taste (n.).
Tear: A drop of clear salty fluid secreted from the glands in a person's eye.
Tongue: The fleshy muscular organ in the mouth.
Touch n., v.: The faculty by which external objects are perceived through contact with the body (n.) / To make physical contact with (v.).
Tympanic membrane: The eardrum.
Vibration: An oscillation of something.
Vision / Visual adj.: The faculty or state of being able to see (n.) / Relating to sight (adj.).
Vitreous humour*: The transparent gelatinous substance filling the eyeball behind the lens.

Physical Examination, Investigations, and Tests: Diagnosing Conditions

This section covers the procedures and vocabulary associated with medical diagnostics.

Abnormal adj. / Abnormality: Deviating from what is normal (adj.) / A deviation from what is normal (n.).
Analysis: Detailed examination of the elements or structure of something.
Analyse* v.: To examine in detail.
Antibody: A protein produced in response to an antigen.
Assess v. / Assessment: To evaluate (v.) / The act of evaluating (n.).
Auscultation: The action of listening to sounds from the heart, lungs, or other organs.
Biopsy: An examination of tissue removed from a living body to discover the presence, cause, or extent of a disease.
Blood count / Blood group / Blood pressure: A test that determines the number of blood cells (n.) / A classification of blood (n.) / The pressure of the blood in the circulatory system (n.).
Check v.: To examine something to ascertain its accuracy or condition.
Cholesterol: A lipid found in the blood.
Computed tomography (CT): A medical imaging technique.
Culture n., v.: The growth of microorganisms in a prepared medium (n.) / To grow microorganisms (v.).
Decrease n., v.: A reduction in amount (n.) / To reduce (v.).
Detect v.: To discover or identify the presence or existence of.
Determine v.: To cause something to occur in a particular way.
Differential diagnosis: The distinguishing of a particular disease or condition from others that present similar symptoms.
Dyspnoea*: Difficult or labored breathing.
Electrocardiogram (ECG) / Electrocardiograph: A record or display of a person's heartbeat (n.) / An instrument for recording heart activity (n.).
Elevated adj.: Raised to a higher level.
Endoscope / Endoscopy: An instrument used to examine the interior of a hollow organ or cavity (n.) / Examination using an endoscope (n.).
Enlarged adj.: Made or become larger.
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): A blood test that can reveal inflammatory activity in the body.
Evaluate v.: To form an idea of the amount, number, or value of.
Examination / Examine v.: A detailed inspection or investigation (n.) / To inspect (v.).
False negative adj. / False positive adj.: (Of a test result) incorrectly indicating that a condition or attribute is absent (adj.) / (Of a test result) incorrectly indicating that a condition or attribute is present (adj.).
Gland: An organ that secretes particular chemical substances.
Haematocrit: The ratio of the volume of red blood cells to the total volume of blood.
Haemoglobin*: A red protein responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood.
Hard adj.: Solid, firm, or rigid.
Heart sounds: The noises generated by the beating heart and the resultant flow of blood through the heart.
Height: The measurement from head to foot.
High adj.: Of great or considerable extent upwards or numerically.
Image / Imaging: A representation of the external form of a person or thing (n.) / The process of producing images (n.).
Impalpable adj.: Not able to be felt by touch.
Increase n., v.: A growth in size, amount, or intensity (n.) / To grow (v.).
Informed consent: Permission granted in the knowledge of the possible consequences.
Inspection: Careful examination or scrutiny.
Invasive adj.: (Of a medical procedure) involving incision into the body or insertion of an instrument.
Investigation: A formal inquiry or systematic study.
Irregular adj.: Not even or regular in shape, arrangement, or pattern.
Laboratory: A room or building equipped for scientific experiments.
Level: A point on a scale.
Listen v.: To give attention to sound.
Low adj.: Of small or limited size, amount, or intensity.
Lumbar puncture: A procedure to collect cerebrospinal fluid.
Lump: A compact mass of a substance.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): A medical imaging technique used in radiology to form pictures of the anatomy and the physiological processes of the body.
Mammography: A technique using X-rays to diagnose and screen for breast cancer.
Mass: A quantity of matter cohering together to form a body of indefinite shape.
Microbiology: The scientific study of microorganisms.
Murmur: An abnormal heart sound.
Negative adj.: Indicating the absence of a disease or condition.
Node: A swelling or knob.
Non-invasive adj.: (Of a medical procedure) not involving incision into the body or insertion of an instrument.
Normal adj.: Conforming to a standard; usual, typical, or expected.
Obese adj.: Grossly fat or overweight.
Oedema*: Excess fluid in the body's tissues.
Ophthalmoscope / Ophthalmoscopy: An instrument for inspecting the retina and other parts of the eye (n.) / Examination of the eye with an ophthalmoscope (n.).
Orthopnoea*: Shortness of breath that occurs when lying flat.
Pain / Painful adj. / Painless adj.: An unpleasant physical sensation (n.) / Causing pain (adj.) / Not causing pain (adj.).
Palpable adj. / Palpate v. / Palpation: Able to be touched or felt (adj.) / To examine by touch (v.) / The act of touching for medical diagnosis (n.).
Percussion: The tapping of a body part with fingers to determine its density.
Positive adj.: Indicating the presence of a disease or condition.
Pulse rate: The number of heartbeats per minute.
Radiography: The use of X-rays to view the internal structure of a non-living object.
Raised adj.: Lifted to a higher position.
Rash: An area of reddening of the skin.
Reduced adj.: Made smaller or less in amount.
Reflex: An involuntary and almost instantaneous movement in response to a stimulus.
Regular adj.: Consistent or even in action or occurrence.
Respiratory rate: The number of breaths per minute.
Result: A consequence, effect, or outcome of something.
Sample: A small part or quantity intended to show what the whole is like.
Scale: A graduated range of values forming a standard system for measuring or grading something.
Scan n., v.: An examination of something with a scanner (n.) / To examine (v.).
Screening: Testing for disease or risk factors.
Self-examination: Examination of one's own body for signs of disease.
Sign: An objective indication of disease.
Smear: A medical sample spread thinly on a microscope slide.
Soft adj.: Easy to mold, cut, or compress; not hard or firm.
Specimen: A sample for medical testing.
Sphygmomanometer: An instrument for measuring blood pressure.
Sputum: A mixture of saliva and mucus coughed up from the respiratory tract.
Stethoscope: An instrument for listening to internal sounds of the body.
Stiff adj. / Stiffness: Not easily bent or changed in shape (adj.) / The inability to move freely (n.).
Swab: A piece of absorbent material used for cleaning wounds or applying medication.
Symptom: A subjective indication of disease.
Tap v.: To strike lightly.
Temperature: The degree or intensity of heat present in a substance or object.
Tender adj. / Tenderness: Sensitive to pain (adj.) / Pain on touch (n.).
Test n., v.: A procedure intended to establish the quality, performance, or reliability of something (n.) / To ascertain the quality (v.).
Tube: A long, hollow cylinder.
Ultrasonograph / Ultrasonography / Ultrasound: An instrument for imaging with ultrasound (n.) / Imaging using ultrasound (n.) / Sound or other vibrations having an ultrasonic frequency (n.).
Urinalysis: The analysis of urine.
Weigh v. / Weight: To measure how heavy someone or something is (v.) / The heaviness of a person or thing (n.).
Wheeze n., v.: A whistling sound made by the lungs (n.) / To make a wheezing sound (v.).
X-ray: An electromagnetic wave of high energy and very short wavelength.

Frequently Asked Questions about Medical Terminology

Why is a Medical Terminology Glossary important for students?

A comprehensive medical terminology glossary is crucial for students as it provides the foundational language needed to understand complex medical concepts, communicate effectively in clinical settings, and accurately interpret patient information and academic texts. It's a stepping stone to deeper medical knowledge.

How can I best utilize this Medical Terminology Glossary for study?

To best utilize this glossary for study, focus on understanding the root words, prefixes, and suffixes. Group related terms (e.g., by body system or disease category) and create flashcards. Regular review, consistent practice, and applying the terms to clinical scenarios will enhance retention and comprehension.

What are the key categories covered in this Medical Terminology Glossary?

This glossary covers a wide range of categories essential for medical students, including terms related to the healthcare system and professionals, common medical conditions and diseases, pharmacology and treatments, first aid fundamentals, surgical procedures and equipment, and detailed breakdowns of all major human body systems (Digestive, Circulatory, Respiratory, Musculoskeletal, Urinary & Reproductive, Nervous, Senses), plus physical examination and diagnostic tests.

Does this glossary cover both anatomical and procedural medical terminology?

Yes, this Comprehensive Medical Terminology Glossary includes both anatomical terms, which describe the structures of the human body and its systems, and procedural/clinical terminology, which covers medical conditions, diagnostic tests, treatments, surgical procedures, and roles within the healthcare system. It's designed to be a holistic resource.

Where can I find more resources to deepen my understanding of medical terminology?

To deepen your understanding, consider consulting anatomy and physiology textbooks, medical dictionaries, and online medical encyclopedias. Practicing with real-world medical reports and patient charts, and participating in medical discussions, can also greatly enhance your comprehension and application of these terms. Always seek out reputable sources to ensure accuracy and currency of information.

Comprehensive Medical Terminology Glossary