Arthro Root Word: Meaning, Definition & Common Terms

Definition & Meaning: Arthro Word Root

The root word arthro comes from the Greek word ‘arthron’ meaning joints. This root is primarily used in biological sciences to describe conditions and treatments related to joints. For example, the word arthritis combines arthro (joints) with itis (inflammation) to signify pain or inflammation in the joints. Another term, arthralgia, also refers to joint pain but without the accompanying inflammation seen in arthritis.

Words Based on the Arthro Word Root

Commonly Used Words

Arthritis: Pain or inflammation in the joints of the body; stiffness of joints.
Arthralgia: Pain in the joints, not usually accompanied by a burning sensation.
Arthroplasty: The surgical repair and remodeling of a joint.
Osteoarthritis: Degradation of joint cartilage causing pain in joints.
Arthrogram: The X-ray of a joint used for diagnosis by doctors.

Archaic or Less Common Words

Arthrodia: The skeletal parts that allow lubrication to partially flat joint surfaces.
Arthral: Referring to the point of union between two joints.
Anarthrous: Referring to the non-movement of joints.

Technical Words/Jargon

Arthroscope: An instrument used to examine joints.
Arthectomy: The surgical operation to remove bone structure.
Arthroclasia: A technique to break an unnatural bone fusion.
Arthrocele: Swelling of bone joints causing pain and discomfort.
Arthrocele: The swelling of bone joints causing pain and discomfort.
Arthrolith: A calcareous deposit between bone connectors causing pain.
Arthrology: The scientific study dealing with the repair of bones.

Related Word Roots

Patho- (Greek: ‘suffering’ ‘disease’)

Pathology: The study of diseases.
Pathogen: An organism that causes disease.
Pathophysiology: The study of how disease processes affect body function.

Dys- (Greek: ‘bad’ ‘difficult’ ‘impaired’)

Dyspepsia: Indigestion.
Dysphoria: A state of dissatisfaction or anxiety.
Dysfunctional: Not operating normally or properly.

Noci- (Latin: ‘hurt’ ‘injury’ ‘pain’)

Nociceptive: Relating to the sensory nervous system’s response to harmful stimuli.
Noxious: Harmful, poisonous, or very unpleasant.

We hope this article on the commonly used Arthro Root Word has been helpful in enhancing your vocabulary and understanding of words derived from this root.