What does the prefix 'aspir/o' mean?

The prefix 'aspir/o' is derived from the Latin word 'aspirare,' which means 'to breathe in' or 'to draw in.' In medical terminology, this prefix is often associated with actions related to inhalation or the process of drawing in air or fluids, which is particularly relevant in contexts like aspiration (the process of drawing in a substance, such as a fluid or air, into the lungs) or the act of aspirating fluids from a body cavity.

While the other options present alternative actions related to breathing or swallowing, they do not align with the specific meaning of 'aspir/o.' For instance, 'to inject' suggests the introduction of a substance into the body rather than drawing it in, 'to breathe out' refers to exhalation, and 'to swallow' pertains to the act of ingesting food or liquid, which is distinctly different from inhalation. Thus, the correct understanding of 'aspir/o' reinforces its link to the action of inhaling or taking in air or fluids.