What does the prefix "anti-" signify?

The prefix "anti-" signifies "against" or "opposite." This prefix is commonly used in medical terminology to indicate opposition to a particular condition or action. For example, in terms like "antibiotic," it refers to substances that fight against bacteria, thereby highlighting the role of the antibiotic as something that opposes the bacteria's effects.

Understanding this prefix is crucial in the medical field, as it helps convey the purpose of various treatments, medications, and procedures that aim to counteract diseases or harmful agents. The other options do not accurately represent the meaning of "anti-," as they relate to different concepts such as position or direction rather than opposition.