Definition

Describing something that occurs in an abnormal location or in different habitats.

Example

The researchers studied heterotopic bone formation in patients after surgery.

Conversation

Did you hear about that heterotopic surgery they performed last week?

Yeah, it sounds really complicated!

They said it was necessary for the patient's recovery, though.

I guess sometimes you have to go for unusual solutions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heterotopic → It is formed from "hetero-" (from Greek "heteros", meaning different) and "topos" (from Greek, meaning place). The word "heterotopic" refers to something that exists in a different place or context, often used in discussions of spaces that are different from the norm.

Memory Tip

Think of 'different' ('hetero-') places ('topos') to remember that 'heterotopic' refers to something existing in a different context or location.

Visually Confused Words