Definition

A medical condition where the opening of the urethra is located on the underside of the penis instead of at the tip, which is a birth defect.

Example

The doctor explained that hypospadias is a condition that can affect boys at birth.

Conversation

Did you hear about that condition called hypospadias?

Yeah, I read about it recently; it's pretty interesting.

I learned that it's a birth defect affecting the urethra.

Exactly, it's fascinating how it can impact development.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hypospadias is formed from "hypo-" (meaning under or below) and "spadias" (from the Greek "spadias", meaning to tear or cut). The term refers to a condition where the opening of the urethra is located on the underside of the penis, hence the meaning of being below the normal position.

Memory Tip

Think of 'under' ('hypo-') and 'cutting' ('spadias') to remember that hypospadias refers to a condition where the urethra opening is below its usual place.

Visually Confused Words