scler-

1. variant of sclero- before a vowel:

   sclerenchyma.

Words That Use scler-

What does scler- mean?

Scler- is a combining form used like a prefix to mean “hard” or as a form of sclera, the white outer layer of the eyeball. Scler- is often used in medical and scientific terms.

Scler- comes from the Greek sklērós, meaning “hard.” The Greek sklērós also helps form the Greek word sklḗrōsis, literally meaning “hardening” and source of the English word sclerosis. You may have encountered sclerosis in the word atherosclerosis, the hardening of the arteries.

Scler– is a variant of sclero-, which loses its -o- when combined with words or word elements beginning with vowels.

Want to know more? Read our Words That Use sclero– article.

Examples of scler-

One example of a medical term that features scler- is sclerectomy, an excision of part of the sclera of the eyeball.

Scler- can refer to the sclera of the eyeball. The second part of the word, -ectomy, means “excision.” So, sclerectomy literally means “sclera removal.”

What are some words that use the combining form scler-?

• scleradenitis
• sclerenchyma
• scleritis
• scleroma

What are some other forms that scler- may be commonly confused with?

• sacr-
• sarc-
• spher-

Break it down!

Some plants have a protective tissue known as sclerenchyma. Based on one of the meanings of scler-, what texture would you expect this tissue to have?