What does the prefix "an-" also mean?

The prefix "an-" is derived from the Greek language and is commonly used in medical terminology to denote negation or absence. When "an-" is used in a medical context, it signifies "without" or "lack of." This is evident in terms such as "anemia," which refers to a lack of sufficient healthy red blood cells, thus indicating a condition where the individual is without an adequate number of these cells.

In this case, "without" captures the essence of what "an-" conveys. The other options, while relevant prefixes in certain contexts, do not align with the meaning of "an-". Knowing the precise meanings of prefixes such as "an-" helps in accurately interpreting medical terms, which is crucial for effective communication in healthcare settings.