What does "mening/o" refer to in medical terminology?

The term "mening/o" specifically refers to the meninges, which are the protective membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. In medical terminology, the prefix is commonly used in various contexts, especially when discussing conditions or procedures related to the meninges, such as meningitis (inflammation of the meninges) or meningioma (a type of tumor that arises from the meninges). Understanding this prefix is crucial for interpreting numerous medical terms related to neurology and central nervous system health.