laparo-

1. a combining form borrowed from Greek, where it meant “flank,” used with the meaning “abdominal wall” in the formation of compound words.

   laparotomy.

Word History and Origins

Origin of laparo-¹

Combining form representing Greek lapára flank (literally, soft part), noun use of feminine of laparós soft

When To Use

What does laparo- mean?

Laparo- is a combining form used like a prefix meaning “abdominal wall." It is often used in medical terms, especially in anatomy and pathology.Laparo- comes from the Greek lapára, meaning “flank.” Literally, it means "soft part," referring to the part of the body between the ribs and the hip.What are variants of laparo-?When combined with words or word elements that begin with a vowel, laparo- becomes lapar-, as in laparectomy.