Prefix meaning middle or medical, used in compound words. As standalone word, informal abbreviation for medical or medic.
From Latin medius meaning 'middle' or medicus meaning 'physician.' The prefix appears in numerous English words where it retained its sense of 'middle' (median, mediate) or evolved toward medical meanings through the physician connection.
This tiny syllable 'medi' carries double linguistic DNA - it can mean either 'middle' or 'medical,' leading to fascinating overlaps like 'medieval' (middle ages) and 'medicine' (physician's art). The convergence shows how Latin roots can evolve in multiple directions while maintaining their essential character.
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