Which of the following best describes "malacia"?

The term "malacia" refers specifically to the softening of tissue, which is derived from the Greek word "malakos," meaning soft. In medical terminology, this suffix is often used to describe conditions where there is an abnormal softening of specific tissues or organs, such as in osteomalacia (softening of the bones) or angiomalacia (softening of blood vessels). Understanding this term is crucial for grasping various medical conditions and their implications, as it highlights alterations in tissue properties that can affect function and health.