Definition

To practice medicine or provide medical care.

Example

She decided to doctor the injured bird back to health.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard you want to be a doctor one day.

Yeah, I really want to doctor in my hometown.

That's awesome! Have you thought about which specialty you want?

Definitely! I’m leaning towards pediatrics because I love working with kids.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A person who is trained and licensed to treat people who are sick or injured.

Example

The doctor examined the patient and prescribed some medicine.

Conversation

I have an appointment with the doctor later today.

Oh really? I hope it's nothing serious.

Nah, just a routine check-up to make sure everything's good.

Definition

To change or modify something, often to improve it or make it more acceptable, sometimes in a way that is not honest.

Example

He decided to doctor the report to make it look better than it actually was.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear that he tried to doctor the recipe for the potluck?

Yeah, I heard he added way too much spice!

I hope he didn't doctor it too much or nobody will eat it.

Root Explanation

Doctor → It is derived from the Latin word "docere" (meaning to teach). The term originally referred to a teacher or someone who imparts knowledge, and over time it evolved to specifically denote a medical professional who practices healing.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'teaches' ('docere') about health and healing — that's why a doctor is someone who helps you with your health.

Visually Confused Words