Definition

A person who is part of the medical staff at a hospital, especially one who is responsible for teaching or supervising medical students.

Example

The attending physician guided the interns during their rounds.

Conversation

I heard you started working at the hospital as an attending physician.

Yeah, it's been quite a change from my last job.

That sounds exciting! What do you enjoy most about being an attending?

I love mentoring the residents and seeing them grow in their skills.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A doctor who is responsible for the care of patients in a hospital, usually overseeing other medical staff.

Example

The attending physician made the final decision about the patient's treatment plan.

Conversation

I heard that the attending physician at the hospital is really knowledgeable.

Yeah, I've seen them in action; they're impressive.

I wish I could get some tips from the attending someday.

Root Explanation

Attending → It is formed from "attendere" (from Latin, meaning to stretch toward or pay attention) and the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process). The word "attending" means the action of being present or paying attention to something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'stretching toward' something to remember that 'attending' means being present or paying attention.

Visually Confused Words