Which of the following does the root word dermat refer to? Sweat Skin Hair Nail
The correct answer and explanation is:
The root word “dermat” refers to skin.
Explanation:
The root “dermat-” comes from the Greek word “derma” (δέρμα), which means skin. This root is commonly used in medical and biological terminology to denote anything related to the skin. For example:
- Dermatology is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of skin disorders.
- Dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin.
- Hypodermis is the layer of tissue beneath the skin.
The confusion sometimes arises because the body has many related structures, such as hair, nails, and sweat glands, but the root “dermat” specifically pertains to the skin itself.
To clarify the other options:
- Sweat: The root related to sweat is “hidr-“ or “sudor-“ (e.g., hidradenitis, sudoriferous glands).
- Hair: The root related to hair is “trich-“ or “pil-“ (e.g., trichology, pilosebaceous).
- Nail: The root related to nails is “onych-“ (e.g., onychomycosis).
The skin is the body’s largest organ, serving as a protective barrier against environmental damage, pathogens, and dehydration. It also helps regulate temperature and allows sensory perception. Because skin is so vital, many medical terms related to skin health, diseases, and treatments use the root “dermat.”
In summary, “dermat” means skin and is widely used in words relating to skin anatomy, diseases, and treatments. It does not refer to sweat, hair, or nails, though those parts are related and sometimes associated with skin in broader biological contexts.