The prefix "ad-" means what?

The prefix "ad-" is derived from Latin, where it means "to" or "toward." This prefix is commonly used in medical terminology as well as in various other contexts to indicate direction, proximity, or the idea of increase or addition. For example, in the term "adduction," which refers to movement toward the midline of the body, the prefix "ad-" clearly conveys the action of bringing something closer or moving it toward a reference point. Understanding the meaning of this prefix can be crucial for interpreting various medical terms and their implications accurately.