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

Words That Use laparo-

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.

Examples of laparo-

One word you may have encountered that features the combining form laparo- is laparotomy, meaning “incision through the abdominal wall.”

As we know, laparo- is used to mean “abdominal wall.” The second part of the word, -tomy, means “cutting, incision.” Laparotomy literally translates to “incision of the abdominal wall.”

Perhaps you have heard of a lap band, another term for a gastric band, “an adjustable band fitted inside the stomach to reduce its capacity as an aid to losing weight.” Lap band is a common way to refer to a laparoscopic adjustable gastric band.

A laparoscope is a type of fiberoptic instrument, passed through a small incision in the abdominal wall and used to examine the abdominal cavity or perform minor surgery. Its adjective form is laparoscopic.

What are some other words that use the combining form laparo-?

• laparocele
• laparorrhaphy
• laparoscopy
• laparotome

What are some other forms that laparo- may be commonly confused with?

• lepto-
• lympho-

Break it down!

The combining form -cele can refer to hernias. A type of hernia known as laparocele is found in what part of the body?