What does the prefix "hypo-" mean?

The prefix "hypo-" originates from Greek, meaning "under," "beneath," or "below." In medical terminology, it indicates a condition that is less than normal or deficient. For example, "hypoglycemia" refers to a condition characterized by abnormally low levels of glucose in the blood. This prefix is commonly used in various medical terms to signify a deficiency or a lower than usual state. Understanding that "hypo-" indicates a lesser quantity helps clarify many medical conditions and their implications in patient care. The other choices represent different meanings that do not align with the established definition of "hypo-".