The suffix -ory denotes which meaning?

• A. Pertaining to
• B. Abnormal condition
• C. Condition of
• D. Process

Answer: (A)

The suffix -ory is used to form adjectives that describe a relationship or function related to the root word. It signals that something is pertaining to or having the function of that root. For example, secretory means pertaining to secretion, auditory means pertaining to hearing, and excretory means pertaining to excretion. That alignment makes “pertaining to” the best fit for this suffix. The other meanings listed don’t match how -ory is used in medical terms, where it’s about relation or function rather than an abnormal condition, a generic “condition of,” or a process.