Hetero - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Hetero is a prefix meaning different or other, often used in words like heterosexual (attracted to the opposite sex) or heterogeneous (composed of diverse elements). It contrasts with homo-, meaning same.
Definition:
Prefix meaning "different" or "other," often used in scientific or technical terms.
Synonyms:
different, other, diverse, dissimilar, varied
Part of Speech:
prefix
Antonyms:
same, homo-, identical
Common Collocations:
heterosexual, heterogeneous, heterodox, heteronym, heteromorphic
Derivatives:
heterodoxy, heterogeneity, heterosis
Usage Tips:
Use "hetero-" as a prefix to indicate difference or contrast in compound words like "heterogeneous."
Common Phrases:
hetero sapiens (rare), hetero normativity (sociology), hetero atom (chemistry)
Etymology:
From Greek "heteros," meaning "other" or "different."
Examples:
- 1. The scientist studied a **heterogeneous** mixture of substances.
- 2. **Heterosexual** relationships are common in many societies.
- 3. The word "lead" is a **heteronym** with two pronunciations.
- 4. The group had **heterodox** views on traditional beliefs.