Which combining form represents 'distant'?

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Study for the Medical Terminology Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each question with explanations and hints. Ace your exam!

The combining form that represents 'distant' is dist/o. This prefix is derived from the Latin word "distans," which means 'standing apart' or 'distant.' It is commonly used in medical terminology to describe structures or conditions that are located far from a reference point, often referring to anatomical positions in the body.

Understanding this combining form is essential for accurately interpreting medical terms. For example, in the term "distal," it describes the location of a body part that is farther away from the center of the body or point of attachment. Thus, recognizing dist/o helps in understanding various medical contexts where distance plays a significant role in anatomy and diagnosing conditions.

The other combining forms refer to different concepts: ili/o refers to the ilium part of the hip bone, hom/o pertains to sameness or similarity, and infer/o relates to a lower position or below. Hence, dist/o specifically and uniquely aligns with the concept of 'distant.'

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