Which combining form is used to denote "child"?

The combining form "Ped/o" is derived from the Latin word "puer," which means "child." In medical terminology, this root is commonly used in words relating to children or pediatrics, which is the branch of medicine that deals specifically with the health and medical care of infants, children, and adolescents. This contextual understanding of the term is crucial, especially in pediatric medicine, where practitioners need to specify treatments and conditions related to younger populations.

The other terms do not convey the idea of "child." For instance, "Patell/o" refers to the kneecap, "Pector/o" pertains to the chest, and "Path/o" is associated with disease. Each of these combining forms has a distinct medical relevance, but none connect to the concept of a child as "Ped/o" does. Thus, recognizing "Ped/o" as the combining form for "child" is essential for correctly enriching one's medical vocabulary and understanding in the context of pediatric care.