Which suffix means growth?

• A. itis
• B. pathy
• C. trophy
• D. malacia

Answer: (C)

Growth is signaled by the suffix that comes from Greek trophe, meaning nourishment or development. In medical terms, -trophy denotes growth or enlargement of a tissue or organ, as seen in hypertrophy (increased size) or dystrophy (abnormal development). Other suffixes have different meanings: -itis for inflammation, -pathy for disease or suffering, and -malacia for softening. So the suffix that expresses growth is -trophy.