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cryptorchid

cryptorchid

9.9
One or both testicles are not in the scrotum
  • adjective
  • /ˌkrɪpˈtɔrkɪd/
  • Specialized
translation icon : criptorquidia
  • The veterinarian diagnosed the puppy as cryptorchid after a routine examination.

Examples

  • Farmers often check young animals to see if any are cryptorchid before breeding.

  • A cryptorchid condition can require surgical intervention to prevent future health problems.

  • The veterinarian diagnosed the puppy as cryptorchid.

  • A cryptorchid condition can lead to health issues later in life.

  • The veterinarian diagnosed the puppy as cryptorchid after a routine examination.

  • A cryptorchid condition can require surgical intervention to prevent future health problems.

  • Farmers often check young animals to see if any are cryptorchid before breeding.

Surface Forms

cryptorchid positive

Morphology

cryptorchid = orchid (opaque) = crypt + orchid

In medical usage '-orchid' refers to 'testicle' (Greek orchis), whereas ordinary English 'orchid' means a flower, so learners knowing 'crypt' and 'orchid' (flower) will not infer the medical meaning.

Etymology

Cryptorchid comes from Greek parts crypt- meaning 'hidden' and orchis meaning 'testicle', the same root as the flower orchid. So a cryptorchid animal has a testicle that stayed 'hidden' and did not move down into the scrotum.