Meaning & use
orthopedist
Last updated
Meaning
nouncountablemedical
a doctor who specializes in treating injuries and diseases of the bones, joints, and muscles
Grammar: Countable; use 'an orthopedist' or 'orthopedists' for more than one.
Patterns
- see an orthopedist
- consult an orthopedist
- orthopedist for something
After the accident, she was referred to an orthopedist for her broken arm.
The orthopedist recommended physical therapy instead of surgery.
He is a well-known orthopedist who works with professional athletes.
Word forms
| plural | orthopedists |
|---|
Common combinations
- consult an orthopedist
- You should consult an orthopedist if the pain persists.
- pediatric orthopedist
- A pediatric orthopedist treats bone problems in children.
- orthopedist appointment
- I have an orthopedist appointment tomorrow morning.
Synonyms and how they differ
- orthopedic surgeon
- A more specific term for an orthopedist who performs surgery; not all orthopedists operate.
- bone doctor
- An informal term; orthopedist is the formal, professional word.
Word family
- orthopedics noun
- The medical specialty itself.
- orthopedic adjective
- Relating to orthopedics, as in orthopedic care.
Commonly confused: orthopedist or pediatrician?
orthopedist vs pediatrician
A pediatrician treats children in general, while an orthopedist focuses on bones and muscles.
Practice
My knee has been hurting for months, so my doctor sent me to an ______.
Choose one answer.
An orthopedist specializes in bones and joints, which fits knee pain. A pediatrician treats children, a dermatologist treats skin, and a cardiologist treats the heart.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “orthopedist”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.