reflexology
UK[ˌriːflɛkˈsɒlədʒi]US[ˌriːflɛkˈsɑːlədʒi]
n
A system of massage used to relieve tension and treat illness, based on the theory that there are points on the feet, hands, and head linked to every part of the body.
n
The scientific study of reflex responses, especially of the nervous system.
Morpheme Breakdown
reflex
ology
reflex
ology
the study or science of.
Etymology
The term 'reflexology' is a modern compound, first used in the early 20th century. It is formed by combining 'reflex,' from the Latin for 'a bending back,' with the Greek-derived suffix '-ology,' meaning 'the study of.' In its primary medical sense, it refers to the study of involuntary nervous responses. The alternative therapy sense applies this logic metaphorically, proposing that the body's systems are 'reflected' in and can be treated via specific points on the extremities, thus constituting a 'study' of these reflex zones.
Analysis
Structure: reflex + ology
reflex: From Latin reflexus (a bending back), itself from re- (back) + flectere (to bend). In this word, it functions as the base denoting a reflected or automatic response.
ology: From Greek -logia (denoting a subject of study or interest), via Latin -logia. In this word, it functions as a suffix meaning "the study or science of."
Examples
She booked a session in reflexology to help with her chronic back pain.
The book provides an introduction to the principles of reflexology.
His research in neurology focused on the reflexology of spinal injuries.