Definition

This term refers to the condition where an organ or body part is either missing or has not developed properly.

Example

The patient was diagnosed with agenesis of the kidney, meaning one kidney did not develop properly.

Conversation

Did you hear about that condition called agenesis?

Yeah, it sounds pretty serious, especially for those affected.

I read that it means a part of the body didn’t develop properly.

That must be really challenging for them; I can't imagine dealing with that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Agenesis → It is formed from "a-" (meaning without) and "genesis" (from Greek "genesis", meaning origin or creation). The word "agenesis" refers to the absence of development or formation of an organ or part.

Memory Tip

Think of 'without' ('a-') and 'creation' ('genesis') to remember that agenesis means the absence of development.

Visually Confused Words