Which combining term refers to the "chest"?

The combining term that refers to the "chest" is "pector/o." In medical terminology, "pector/o" is derived from the Latin word "pectus," which means chest. It is commonly used in various medical terms related to the chest area, such as "pectoralis" (which refers to the muscles of the chest) and "pectoral" (pertaining to the chest). This term is an important component in anatomy and various medical contexts when discussing structures or conditions related to the chest.

The other options do not relate to the chest. "Paternal" typically refers to something associated with a father and is not a combining form. "Patell/o" refers specifically to the patella, or kneecap, and "pelv/o" denotes the pelvis. Understanding these distinctions is key in the study of medical terminology, as it helps clarify the specific region or structure being discussed.