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The complex suffix [-opathy] is formed by two combined suffixes. The first one is similar in origin to the root term [-path-] (basis for the medical term [pathology]); both arise from the Greek word [παθος] (pathos). Although Google Translate says it means “passion”, it also means “feeling”, “suffering” or a “distressed state” (Skinner, 1970). If we add the second suffix ending [-y] meaning “process”, a simple translation of the complex suffix [-opathy] is “disease process”, or “disease”.
It was first used by Galen of Pergamon (129AD – 200AD) as a term to denote a disturbance of a vital process. Vital processes were a convoluted attempt at explaining human physiology. Although wrong, Galen’s physiology was used for almost 1,400 years! You can read more on Galen’s physiological system here.
This suffix is widely used in medicine. Following are some examples:
• Cardiomyopathy: Disease of the heart muscle
• Myopathy: Muscle disease
• Nephropathy: Kidney disease
• Arthropathy: Joint disease
• Lymphadenopathy: Disease of the lymph glands (nodes)
Sources:
1. "The origin of Medical Terms" Skinner, AH, 1970
Note: The links to Google Translate include an icon that will allow you to hear the pronunciation of the word.
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