Definition

A place where people go to receive medical care and treatment when they are sick or injured.

Example

After the accident, he was taken to the hospital for treatment.

Conversation

I heard you visited someone in the hospital last week.

Yeah, my uncle had surgery, but he's doing better now.

That's a relief! Did you have to wait long at the hospital?

Not really, it was pretty quick, thankfully.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hospital → It is formed from 'hospes' (meaning guest or host) and the suffix '-al' (meaning pertaining to). The word 'hospital' originally referred to a place that provides shelter and care for guests or travelers.

Memory Tip

Think of a place that cares for 'guests' ('hospes') — that's why a hospital is where people go for care.

Visually Confused Words