What is indicated by the prefix "brady-" in medical terminology?

The prefix "brady-" in medical terminology indicates slowness. It is derived from the Greek word "bradys," meaning slow. You will often find this prefix used in various medical terms to describe conditions related to a reduced rate or slower than normal function. For instance, "bradycardia" refers to a slower than normal heart rate, illustrating how the prefix signifies a decrease in speed or rate.

The other prefixes do not represent a similar meaning. For instance, a prefix that denotes speed would relate to a sense of rapidity, while terms suggesting size or pain would clearly phase out the notion of slowness represented by "brady-." Understanding prefixes in medical terminology can significantly enhance comprehension of various conditions and their implications.