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Embry- is a combining form used like a prefix representing the word embryo. It is used in some scientific terms, especially in anatomy and biology.

Embry- ultimately comes from the Greek é��������Dz�, meaning “ingrowing.”

Embry- is a variant of embryo-, which loses its -o– when combined with words or word elements beginning with vowels.

Want to know more? Read our 51�Թ�s That Use embryo- article.

One example of a medical term that features embry- is embryectomy, meaning “removal of an embryo.”

The first part of the word, embry-, means “embryo,” as we have seen. The second part of the word, -ectomy, means “excision, removal.” Embryectomy literally translates to “embryo removal.”

What are some words that use or are related to the combining form embry-?

• embryoctony
• embryoma
• embryonic
• embryony
• embryonoid

What are some other forms that embry- may be commonly confused with?

• bryo-

The suffix -oma is used to name tumors. In what type of tissue does a type of tumor known as an embryoma develop?