Greek · root
temnein
cut
Forms
- tem-
- tom- — An inherited Greek vowel variant, especially in related nouns.
- tomo- — Combining form of tom- with a linking vowel.
Origin
Reconstructed Proto-Indo-European *tem-, ‘cut.’
Note
A cut can separate a whole into units, so this root also names divisions and sections.
Words sharing this root
anatomicRelating to the structure of the body.anatomizeTo examine something by separating and studying its parts.anatomyThe internal structure of a body and the study of that structure.atomThe smallest particle retaining the identity of a chemical element.dichotomyA division into two contrasting or branching parts.entomologyThe scientific study of insects.epitomeA brief summary of a larger work or subject.epitomeA perfect example of a quality or type.