HESI A2 Vocabulary Test Bank

HESI A2 Vocabulary Test Bank 2025/2026

• The word “cardiac” originates from the Greek word “kardia.” What does “kardia”

mean?A.Lung B.Heart C.Blood D.Vessel

Answer:B

Explanation:“Cardiac” relates to the heart, derived from the Greek “kardia,” mean- ing heart. A, C, and D refer to different anatomical structures.

• What is the meaning of the prefix “hyper-” in medical terms like “hypertension”?

A.Below normal B.Above normal C.Within normal D.Without

Answer:B

Explanation:The prefix “hyper-” (from Greek) means above normal, as in hyper- tension (high blood pressure). A, C, and D are incorrect prefixes.

• The term “diagnosis” comes from Greek roots “dia” and “gnosis.” What does “gnosis”

mean?A.Separation B.Knowledge C.Treatment D.Condition

Answer:B

Explanation:“Gnosis” means knowledge in Greek; “diagnosis” involves identifying a condition through knowledge. A, C, and D do not fit the root’s meaning.

• What is the origin of the word “surgery,” derived from the Greek “cheirourgia”?

A.Hand work B.Mind work C.Foot work D.Tool work

Answer:A

Explanation:“Cheirourgia” combines “cheir” (hand) and “ergon” (work), meaning hand work, reflecting surgical procedures. B, C, and D are incorrect.

• The word “pharmacy” originates from the Greek “pharmakon.” What does “phar-

makon” mean?A.Healing B.Drug C.Poison

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D.Both B and C

Answer:D

Explanation:“Pharmakon” means drug or poison, as drugs can heal or harm. A is too narrow, and B or C alone is incomplete.

• What does the term “benevolent” mean?

A.Harmful B.Kindly C.Indifferent D.Confused

Answer:B

Explanation:“Benevolent” (from Latin “bene,” good, and “volens,” wishing) means kindly or well-meaning. A, C, and D are incorrect.

• Choose the synonym for “mitigate.”

A.Worsen B.Relieve C.Ignore D.Complicate

Answer:B

Explanation:“Mitigate” means to relieve or lessen, as in reducing pain. A, C, and D are antonyms or unrelated.

• What is the meaning of “ambivalent”?

A.Certain B.Uncertain C.Angry D.Excited

Answer:B

Explanation:“Ambivalent” (from Latin “ambi,” both, and “valere,” strength) means having mixed or uncertain feelings. A, C, and D do not fit.

• Which word is an antonym of “transient”?

A.Temporary B.Brief C.Permanent D.Short-lived

Answer:C

Explanation:“Transient” means temporary; its antonym is permanent. A, B, and D are synonyms.

• What does “prudent” mean in the context of decision-making?

A.Reckless B.Cautious C.Hasty D.Emotional

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