Definition

A medical condition where one or both of the testicles do not move down into the scrotum as they should during development.

Example

The doctor diagnosed him with cryptorchism after a physical examination.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of cryptorchism?

Yeah, I think it's when the testes don't descend properly, right?

Exactly! It's more common than most people realize.

I had no idea; that sounds like something worth learning about.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cryptorchism is formed from "crypto-" (from Greek "kryptos", meaning hidden) and "orchis" (from Greek "orchis", meaning testicle). The term refers to a condition where one or both testicles are not descended into the scrotum, hence they are 'hidden'.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hidden' ('crypto-') testicles ('orchis') to remember that cryptorchism refers to a condition where the testicles are not in their usual place.

Visually Confused Words