Medical terminology · Positions and Directions

retro- — Backward, behind

retro- means backward, behind. Latin source words and medical terminology examples: retrosternal.

Meaning and source words

Meaning: Backward, behind

• Latin: retro

Examples and word parts

retrosternal

Behind the breastbone.

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Related positions and directions terms

• ab-, abs- — Away from

  abduction

• ambi- — Both sides

  ambidextrous

• ante- — Before, forward

  antenatal

• circum- — Around

  circumoral

• cycl- — Circle, cycle

  cyclic

• dextr-, dextro- — Right side

  dextrocardia

• de- — Away from, ending

  dehydration

• dia- — Across, through

  dialysis

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