What does the prefix "ab-" connote in medical terms?

The prefix "ab-" is derived from Latin, meaning "away from." In medical terminology, this prefix is commonly used to describe conditions or actions that indicate a departure from a standard or a location, such as in the term "abduction," which refers to the movement of a limb away from the midline of the body. Therefore, understanding that "ab-" denotes a directional movement away from a reference point is crucial for interpreting various medical terms accurately. This knowledge helps in comprehending anatomical references and in clinical contexts where precise communication about location and movement is necessary.