prothesis Definition

prothesis
noun protheses

1. linguistics.
The addition of a sound or syllable at the beginning of a word, eg the Spanish ‘escuela' meaning ‘school' developed in this way from Latin ‘schola'. Also called prosthesis.
2a. In Eastern Orthodox churches: the preparation of the Eucharist and placing it on the table ready for use;
2b. In Eastern Orthodox churches: the table itself or the part of the church where the table stands.

Derivative: prothetic
adj

Etymology: 17c: Greek, meaning ‘a placing before'.