Definition
ortho
prefix
- a combining form meaning straight, correct, or right; used in chemistry to denote a benzene ring with substituents in adjacent positions
Usage: productive prefix in scientific and technical terminology
noun
- short for orthodontics or an orthodontist
Usage: informal; common in dental contexts
adjective
- relating to or denoting orthodontics or orthodontic treatment
Usage: informal; used attributively
Examples
- The prefix ortho- appears in words like orthopedic and orthography.
- She went to ortho to get her braces adjusted.
- My ortho appointment is scheduled for next Tuesday.
- The ortho treatment took about two years to complete.
- Ortho-substituted benzene rings have different chemical properties than para-substituted ones.