What does the root "gloss" refer to in medical terms?

In medical terminology, the root "gloss" originates from the Greek word "glōssa," which means tongue. This root is commonly used in various medical terms associated with the tongue, such as "glossitis," which refers to inflammation of the tongue. It is important to understand these roots, as they provide a foundational vocabulary for describing anatomy and medical conditions related to specific body parts.

The other choices refer to different anatomical structures and have their own distinct roots. For instance, "hepat-" is associated with the liver, "pharyng-" refers to the throat, and "nephr-" pertains to the kidney. Understanding these roots helps in deciphering medical terms and enhances comprehension of the language used in healthcare.