Pronunciation: [dˈɜːm] (IPA) 
The word "derm" refers to the skin, and its spelling is closely tied to its pronunciation. In phonetic transcription, it is written as /dɜrm/, with the emphasis on the first syllable. The "d" is pronounced like a voiced alveolar stop, while the "er" is pronounced like an unstressed schwa sound, and the "m" is a voiced bilabial nasal sound. The spelling of the word "derm" reflects its Greek root, "derma," which also means "skin."
"Derm" is a prefix derived from the Greek word "derma" meaning skin. It is used to form various medical terms related to the skin. As a prefix, "derm" is commonly employed in the field of dermatology, which is the study of the skin and its diseases.
In medical terminology, "derm" is used to describe conditions, procedures, tests, and organs associated with the skin. For instance, terms like "dermatitis" refer to the inflammation of the skin, "dermabrasion" is a cosmetic procedure used to improve the appearance of the skin, and "dermoscopy" refers to a non-invasive diagnostic technique used to examine skin lesions.
The prefix "derm" is also used to denote various layers and structures within the skin. For example, "dermis" refers to the thick inner layer of the skin, composed primarily of connective tissue, while "epidermis" describes the outermost layer of the skin, responsible for protecting underlying tissues.
Overall, "derm" is a widely utilized prefix in medical terminology to denote concepts, conditions, and procedures related to the skin. Its consistent application enables medical professionals to accurately communicate and understand various aspects of dermatology, aiding in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of skin disorders.
The true skin; the integument which covers animal bodies.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Derm" is derived from the Greek word "derma" (δέρμα), which means "skin". It is commonly used as a prefix in medical terminology related to the skin, such as "dermatology" (study of the skin), "dermatologist" (doctor specializing in skin diseases), and "dermis" (the second layer of the skin).
