Patient Meaning and Definition
Patient
Pronunciation
/ˈpeɪʃənt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A patient is an individual who receives or is receiving medical care, treatment, or therapy, often requiring a health professional’s attention, care, or advice.
Examples
1. “The patient was diagnosed with a rare illness and required ongoing treatment and care.”
2. “The doctor-patient relationship is a vital aspect of healthcare, built on trust and open communication.”
Synonyms
1. Inmate
2. Resident
3. Under care
Antonyms
1. Physician
2. Therapist
Etimology
The word ‘Patient’ has its origins in Old French ‘paiteint,’ which comes from Latin ‘patients,’ meaning ‘one who suffers.’
Usage Notes
When referring to a person under medical care, the preferred term is ‘patient.’ However, when discussing a person’s character or behavior, ‘patient’ can also be used to describe someone who shows tolerance or understanding.
In formal or medical contexts, it’s essential to use the term ‘patient’ to avoid confusion with ‘consumer’ or other similar words.
Cultural References
In healthcare and medicine, ‘patient’ has appeared in various media and publications, including documentaries, literature, and TV shows. One notable example is the character “Doctor Patient” from a Japanese novel, where a young doctor faces numerous medical dilemmas while balancing her career and relationships.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Listen to your doctor,” meaning taking professional medical advice, has the ‘Patient’ noun integrated in a compound verb. In conversation “Sit a while patiently”
Collocations
Some common collocations with the term ‘Patient’ include: Doctor-Patient Relationship Patient-Centered Healthcare Patient-Provider Communication Patient Engagement Strategies
Frequency of Use
The term ‘Patient’ is commonly used in various contexts, including medical, healthcare, and wellness industries. Its frequency of use in modern language is substantial, particularly in professional and educational settings.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings of the word ‘Patient’ include: Paient Patinet Peatient