What meaning is associated with the prefix "hetero-"?

The prefix "hetero-" comes from the Greek word "heteros," which means "other" or "different." It is commonly used in medical and scientific terminology to indicate something that is not uniform or identical. For example, in the term "heterogeneous," which refers to a mixture that is composed of different components, the prefix clearly highlights that diversity or variation is involved.

In the context of the question, "hetero-" signifies a distinction or difference, aligning perfectly with the provided meaning of "different." This understanding is crucial for correctly interpreting terms in medical jargon where identifying variations can affect diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of medical conditions. Thus, recognizing that "hetero-" denotes difference is essential for anyone studying medical terminology.