What does the suffix -pathy mean?

The suffix -pathy comes from the Greek word "pathos," which means suffering or disease. When it is used in medical terminology, it typically denotes a condition that involves disease or disorder. For example, in terms like "neuropathy," it refers to conditions affecting the nerves, highlighting the aspect of disease associated with those nerves. Thus, understanding that -pathy signifies a disease helps clarify its use in various medical terms, emphasizing the nature of the condition being described.