What does "olig/o" signify in medical terminology?

The prefix "olig/o" in medical terminology signifies a condition of scarcity or deficiency, commonly interpreted as "minimal" or "insufficient." This prefix is often used to describe reduced amounts, such as in “oliguria,” which refers to a decreased urine output. In this context, the term conveys a concept of limitation or a small quantity, effectively capturing the essence of what "minimal" indicates.

The alternatives provided refer to different concepts that do not align with the meaning of "olig/o." For instance, "ample" represents a state of abundance or plenty, which contrasts sharply with the notion of scarcity. "Night" has no relation to the prefix’s meaning, as it refers solely to a time of day. Lastly, "heart" relates to the organs or cardiovascular context, which is unrelated to the significance of deficiency implied by "olig/o." Thus, the correct answer accurately reflects the prefix's established usage in medical vocabulary.