What does the prefix "Peri-" mean?

The prefix "peri-" originates from Greek and means "around" or "surrounding." In medical terminology, it's often used to describe areas or structures that encircle or are adjacent to something. For instance, in words like "pericardium," which refers to the membrane surrounding the heart, the prefix indicates that it encompasses or surrounds the heart itself. This context is crucial for understanding various medical terms and their meanings in anatomy and physiology. The other options represent different prefixes with distinct meanings, such as "after" (which would relate to "post-"), "many" (often indicated by "poly-"), and "before" (associated with "pre-"). Understanding these prefixes enhances one's comprehension of complex medical terminology.