What does the suffix "-al" typically signify?

The suffix "-al" is commonly used in medical terminology and signifies "pertaining to." This means that when "-al" is added to the root of a word, it transforms the meaning to indicate a relationship or relevance to something specific. For example, in terms like "cardiac" (pertaining to the heart) or "neural" (pertaining to nerves), the suffix helps articulate that the subject matter is directly related to what precedes it. Understanding this suffix is crucial for grasping the context of various medical terms, as it provides clarity on how different body systems or conditions relate to each other.