Which root means groove?

• A. Sub
• B. Sulc
• C. Supra
• D. Sym

Answer: (B)

Understanding roots that describe physical features helps in dissecting medical terms. The form sulc- represents a groove or furrow. In anatomy, sulcus (plural sulci) is literally a groove, such as the central sulcus on the brain or the gingival sulcus between tooth and gum. That direct link to a groove makes sulc- the best fit for “groove.”

The other roots point to different ideas: sub- means under or below (as in subcutaneous), supra- means above (as in supraorbital), and sym- (a form of syn-) means together or with (as in symmetry).