scler-

1. variant of sclero- before a vowel.

   sclerenchyma.

When To Use

What does scler- mean?

Scler- is a combining form used like a prefix to mean "hard" or as a form of sclera, the white outer layer of the eyeball. Scler- is often used in medical and scientific terms.Scler- comes from the Greek sklērós, meaning “hard.” The Greek sklērós also helps form the Greek word sklḗrōsis, literally meaning “hardening” and source of the English word sclerosis. You may have encountered sclerosis in the word atherosclerosis, the hardening of the arteries.Scler- is a variant of sclero-, which loses its -o- when combined with words or word elements beginning with vowels.Want to know more? Read our Words That Use sclero- article.