perioperative

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: //ˌpɛr.iˈɒp.ə.rə.tɪv//

KK: /pɛrɪˈɒpərətɪv/

adjective

Definition

This word describes the time period surrounding a surgical operation, including the preparation before the surgery and the recovery afterward.

Example

The patient received perioperative care to ensure a smooth recovery after the surgery.

Conversation

I heard the hospital has a new perioperative program that focuses on patient care.

Really? That sounds interesting! What does it involve?

It includes support before, during, and after the surgery to improve recovery.

That’s great! It’s nice to see more attention on perioperative care.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

surgical

operative

preoperative

Antonyms

postoperative

nonoperative

asymptomatic

Root Explanation

Perioperative is formed from "peri-" (meaning around) and "operari" (meaning to work or perform). The term refers to the period surrounding a surgical operation, encompassing the phases before, during, and after the procedure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'peri-' meaning 'around' and 'operari' meaning 'to work' — this helps you remember that 'perioperative' relates to the work done around a surgical operation.

Visually Confused Words

preoperative

perorative

perforative

inoperative