doctor
noun (countable)
UK/ˈdɒk.tər/US/ˈdɑːk.tɚ/
A person holding a doctoral degree (PhD, EdD, etc.).
Example Sentences
He earned his doctor from the prestigious university in 2010.
She is a doctor of philosophy in literature.
The doctor published several papers during his doctoral studies.
They addressed the doctor to discuss her thesis.
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Synonyms
verb (transitive)
UK/ˈdɒk.tər/US/ˈdɑːk.tɚ/
To tamper with or alter something, especially dishonestly or fraudulently.
Example Sentences
Someone tried to doctor the results to make them look better.
He was accused of doctoring the evidence in the case.
They were found guilty of doctoring the financial statements.
She doctored the photograph to remove unwanted objects.
The counterfeiters doctored the currency to pass it as real money.
He doctored his resume to include false qualifications.
The scientist refused to doctor the data, maintaining the integrity of the research.
They were caught doctoring the test scores to achieve higher rankings.
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Antonyms
How to Use
A licensed professional diagnosing and treating illnesses.“Doctor” is predominantly used as a noun to refer to a qualified individual who practices medicine. In speech or writing, you might say, “I need to see a doctor,” to indicate that you require a medical professional’s evaluation. When giving instructions, you could use phrases like, “Consult a doctor if symptoms persist,” emphasizing the importance of seeking expert help for ongoing medical issues. In more formal contexts, you might use the title “Doctor” followed by a surname (e.g., “Doctor Smith”) to address or refer to a medical practitioner. Beyond general practitioners, the term can extend to specialists, such as a “cardiologist” or a “pediatrician.” While “doctor” often refers to medical professionals, it can also apply to individuals holding a doctoral degree in fields like philosophy (Ph.D.) or law (J.D.), although colloquially it generally denotes someone who diagnoses and treats health conditions. Consider your audience and context to decide whether you need to clarify the type of doctor in question—especially in interdisciplinary environments or academic discussions. By combining “doctor” with descriptive terms (e.g., “family doctor,” “eye doctor”), you can give additional clarity on the area of expertise.
Alternatives
If you’re looking to vary your language around the concept of a medical professional, you might try “physician,” “clinician,” or “medical practitioner.” “Physician” is a close synonym typically used in formal or academic contexts, emphasizing the professional expertise of someone licensed to practice medicine. “Clinician” applies broadly to any healthcare provider who works directly with patients, which can include doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. “Medical practitioner” is an umbrella term that likewise covers all individuals legally authorized to practice medicine. In more casual settings, phrases like “healthcare provider” or “healthcare professional” might be appropriate, particularly when discussing a wider range of roles that go beyond doctors themselves. Choosing the right synonym depends on your intended audience, the level of formality, and the specific medical setting or topic at hand. With these options, you can maintain nuance and clarity, ensuring readers or listeners grasp precisely which type of professional you are referencing.
Writing
When writing about a doctor, provide clear context so readers understand the individual’s role and expertise. If your text is academic or formal, specify credentials (e.g., “board-certified cardiologist” or “licensed family practitioner”) to establish authority and authenticity. For instance, “Dr. Garcia, a highly experienced pediatrician, specializes in early childhood vaccinations.” You can also detail the doctor’s responsibilities or practice settings—whether working in a hospital, running a private clinic, or conducting research. This helps to paint a well-rounded picture of their work and daily challenges, such as diagnosing complex conditions, advising patients on preventive care, or coordinating with nurses and other specialists. Consider using statistics or case studies to highlight the significance of a doctor’s impact on individual patients or larger communities. Above all, maintain clarity and show empathy, particularly when describing how doctors interact with patients. This approach not only conveys respect for the profession but also underscores the importance of trusted healthcare guidance in any discussion of medical topics.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, “doctor” most commonly refers to someone you see when you’re feeling unwell or need professional medical advice. You might say, “I’m going to the doctor for a check-up,” signaling a routine visit, or “The doctor said I need more rest,” referring to professional advice. If a friend mentions they “saw the doctor,” you might casually ask, “Oh? What did they say?” to show concern. When chatting about different specializations, you could note, “My doctor recommended a dermatologist,” or “I’ll ask my doctor if I should see a specialist.” In these exchanges, the term is straightforward and revolves around personal experience, focusing on practical matters like scheduling appointments, taking prescribed medications, or following advice for better health. The vibe is generally one of trust and familiarity—most people expect a doctor to have the answers or treatments needed to help them feel better. Keeping it relaxed and approachable helps break down anxiety around medical appointments, encouraging open dialogue about health and wellness among friends, family, or coworkers.
Etymology
The English word “doctor” traces back to the Latin “docere,” meaning “to teach,” reflecting its original broader sense of an educated or learned person. During the Middle Ages, the term increasingly denoted academic scholars who had earned the highest degree in various fields, such as theology, law, or medicine. Over time, its association with practitioners of medicine solidified, as physicians’ roles in society became more clearly defined and specialized. Modern usage primarily points to a medical professional who diagnoses, treats, and advises patients, although the original meaning remains intact in academic circles, where people who earn a doctoral degree (Ph.D.) become “Doctors” in their discipline. Even today, the idea of teaching underlies the profession—doctors educate patients about diagnoses, treatments, and preventive measures. This blend of history and function reveals the enduring link between knowledge, instruction, and healing in the role of a doctor.
