About: The root word” Tem/Tom” used in many English words is derived from Greek word “Temnein” which means “to cut”. A sense of “split”, “division”, or “crack” etc. is exhibited from the derived words.
Various prefixes and suffixes alter the meaning of derived words accordingly.
Words:
Atom (noun) - The smallest particle of a chemical element that can exist.
Autotomy (noun) - The casting off of a part of the body (e.g. the tail of a lizard) by an animal under threat.
Diatom (noun) - A single-celled alga which has a cell wall of silica. Many kinds are planktonic, and extensive fossil deposits have been found.
Dichotomous (adjective) - (Of branching) in which the axis is divided into two branches.
Dichotomy (noun) - A division or contrast between two things that are or are represented as being opposed or entirely different.
Ectomy (suffix) - Denoting surgical removal of a specified part of the body.
Epitome (noun) - A summary of a written work; an abstract.
Monatomic (adjective) - Consisting of one atom.
Polyatomic (adjective) - Consisting of many atoms.
Anatomy (noun) - The branch of science concerned with the bodily structure of humans, animals, and other living organisms, especially as revealed by dissection and the separation of parts.
