Final answer:
The suffix '-cele' is used to denote herniation or hernia in medical terminology, denoting a protrusion of an organ or tissue through its containing structure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The suffix that typically signifies herniation or hernia in medical terminology is -cele. When this suffix is attached to the end of a word, it indicates a protrusion or bulge of an organ or tissue through a structure that normally contains it. This formation is consistent with the way anatomical terms are structured, where a root word, often indicating an organ or tissue, is modified by prefixes and suffixes that describe a condition or process. For example, cystocele refers to a hernia of the bladder and gastrocele refers to a hernia of the stomach. Understanding such terminology is crucial for healthcare professionals when diagnosing and treating various conditions.