The term 'prefix with function' refers to two prefixes, MAL and DYS, which are used to modify the meaning of a word. The prefix MAL means 'BAD' or 'ILL, ' while the prefix DYS means 'DIFFICULT' or 'ABNORMAL.' These prefixes can be used to create new words that describe a particular function or process in a negative or DIFFICULT way. For example, the word 'maladaptation' describes an adaptation that is not successful, and the word 'dysfunction' describes a malfunctioning process.