op
UK[ɒp]US[ɑːp]
n
A surgical operation.
n
A style of abstract art, especially one using optical illusions and geometrical patterns.
Etymology
The word 'op' is a modern English clipping, a shortened form of the word 'operation'. Its primary use in medical contexts as a slang term for surgery emerged in the 20th century. A distinct, later development saw 'op' become a clipping of 'optical art', giving rise to the term 'Op Art' in the 1960s to describe a movement focused on visual effects and perception. Both usages demonstrate the common linguistic process of abbreviation for convenience and stylistic effect, creating a concise, informal term from a longer, more formal one.
Analysis
This word is a simplex form. It is a modern English abbreviation and clipping, not derived from classical morphemes.
Examples
He's in hospital for a minor op tomorrow.
The gallery is hosting an exhibition on 1960s op.
She was nervous but relieved after the op was successful.