What does the prefix "Lord-" refer to?

The prefix "Lord-" refers specifically to a condition characterized by an excessive curvature of the lower back, commonly referred to as swayback or lordosis. In this context, "lordosis" describes a significant anterior curvature of the lumbar spine, which can result in a pronounced arch in the lower back. This term is derived from the Greek word "lordos," meaning "bent" or "curved."

The other terms do not match this definition. Humpback refers to kyphosis, which is an exaggerated rounding of the upper back. A flat back is associated with diminished spinal curvature, and the term crooked typically indicates a lateral deviation of the spine, such as scoliosis. Therefore, swayback is the correct interpretation of the prefix "Lord-," making it associated with a specific type of spinal curvature.