What does the prefix "centi-" denote?

The prefix "centi-" is derived from the Latin word "centum," which means one hundred. In the metric system, "centi-" denotes one hundredth of a unit. For example, one centimeter is one hundredth of a meter. This understanding is crucial for interpreting measurements in various scientific fields, including pharmacology, where accurate dosing and measurement are essential. The significance of this prefix can be seen in realistic applications, such as expressing body weight in grams or medication quantities, thus reinforcing the importance of prefixes in making precise calculations in healthcare settings.