Word Root: -Centesis

Definition & Meaning: Centesis Word Root

The Word Root Centesis originates from Greek and means “a puncture or perforation of a body cavity.” This root is primarily used in medical terminology, where it signifies a procedure involving puncturing a body cavity to extract fluid or air for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. The understanding of this root helps in deciphering various medical terms, providing clarity in the field of healthcare.

Commonly Used Words Based on the Centesis Word Root

One of the most common terms derived from this root is
amniocentesis:

• Amnio: Refers to the amniotic sac surrounding a fetus.
• Centesis: Means puncture.
• Amnio + Centesis: A procedure to sample amniotic fluid.

Example Sentence: Amniocentesis is often performed to detect chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus.

Commonly Used Words Based on the Centesis Word Root:

• Thoracentesis: The puncture of the chest wall to remove fluid.
• Paracentesis: The puncture of the abdominal cavity to remove fluid.
• Arthrocentesis: The puncture of a joint to remove fluid.

Archaic Words Based on the Centesis Word Root:

• Abdominocentesis: An older term for paracentesis, specifically indicating the puncture of the abdomen.
• Hydrothorax Centesis: An older term used to describe the removal of fluid from the pleural cavity.

Technical Words/Jargon Based on the Centesis Word Root:

• Pericardiocentesis: The puncture of the pericardium to remove fluid.
• Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): Although not ending in ‘Centesis’, this term involves sampling placental tissue, similar in concept to amniocentesis.
• Pleurocentesis: Another term for thoracentesis, focusing on the pleural cavity.

Related Word Roots

1. Tom

Meaning: To cut.

• Anatomy: The study of the structure of organisms and their parts.
• Lobotomy: A surgical operation involving incision into the prefrontal lobe of the brain.
• Gastrotomy: A surgical incision into the stomach.

2. Punct

Meaning: To prick or pierce.

• Punctuation: The marks used in writing that separate sentences and their elements to clarify meaning.
• Puncture: A small hole made by a sharpobject.
• Acupuncture: A system of complementarymedicine that involves pricking the skin or tissues with needles.

3. Tap

Meaning: To draw fluid.

• Tap: A device by which a flow of liquid or gas from a pipe or container can be controlled.
• Taproot: The primary root from which other roots sprout laterally.
• Intravenous Tap: An access point to draw blood or administer fluids into the veins.

We hope this article on the Word Root Centesis has been helpful in understanding and remembering the words based on this root. Keep learning and expanding your vocabulary!