What is the meaning of the root "malacia"?

The root "malacia" originates from the Greek word "malakos," which means "soft." In medical terminology, it is often used to describe abnormal softness in tissues, particularly within a specific organ or part of the body. For example, osteomalacia refers to the softening of bones, usually due to a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate. Therefore, the correct interpretation of "malacia" aligns directly with the idea of softness rather than suggesting anything related to badness, twisting, or disease.

The other options focus on meanings that do not connect directly to the etymology of "malacia." "Bad" and "illness" imply negative conditions but do not reflect the concept of softness. "Twisted" denotes a different physical condition, which also diverges from the meaning associated with "malacia." Understanding these distinctions is essential for accurately interpreting medical terms and their applications in a chiropractic context.