Medical Suffix
-ptosis
-ptosis means drooping or downward displacement (from the Greek ptosis, meaning a falling).
What does -ptosis mean?
The suffix -ptosis means drooping, sagging, or downward displacement of a body part. It comes from the Greek word ptosis, meaning a falling. It appears at the end of words describing an organ or structure that has dropped from its normal position. For example, blepharoptosis is drooping of the upper eyelid. The p at the start is silent when the suffix stands alone, but sounded within a word.
Example words using -ptosis
Related word parts
Frequently asked questions
What does -ptosis mean?
The suffix -ptosis means drooping or downward displacement of a body part, and comes from Greek.
What does blepharoptosis mean?
It means drooping of the upper eyelid, combining blephar/o with -ptosis.
Is the p in -ptosis silent?
The p is silent when the word begins with ptosis, but it is sounded when the suffix appears within a longer word.
Study reference only — not medical advice. Always consult qualified sources for clinical decisions.