Which term refers to the partial or complete loss of sensation?

The term that refers to the partial or complete loss of sensation is anesthesia. Anesthesia is derived from the Greek words "an-" meaning without, and "aisthesis," meaning sensation. This concept is commonly used in medical contexts, particularly in relation to procedures where loss of sensation is necessary, such as in surgeries or during certain medical examinations to ensure that the patient does not experience pain.

In contrast, anorexia refers to an eating disorder characterized by an aversion to food and a fear of gaining weight, which does not relate to sensation. Aphasia is a condition affecting speech and language, typically as a result of brain injury or neurological condition, while aphagia describes difficulty or inability to swallow, which also does not pertain to sensation. Understanding these definitions helps clarify why anesthesia is the appropriate choice when discussing loss of sensation.