physician

noun

phy·​si·​cian fə-ˈzi-shən How to pronounce physician (audio)
plural physicians
Synonyms of physiciannext
1
: a person trained in the art of healing
specifically : a health care professional (such as a dermatologist, internist, pediatrician, or urologist) who has earned a medical degree, is clinically experienced, and is licensed to practice medicine as usually distinguished from surgery : a doctor of medicine or a doctor of osteopathic medicine
2
: someone or something that has a beneficial effect or influence
Do justice with mercy. That is what, in essence, the brilliant physician of the heart and soul, Maimonides, tried to teach us 900 years ago.—Jack Weinstein

Synonyms of physician

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Examples of physician in a Sentence

you should always consult a physician if you develop a high fever
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One day, my physician encouraged me to explore new, open-source software that better manages the sensor and pump system. — Dana P. Goldman, STAT, 4 Aug. 2026 Because physician leaders are often perceived to have originated from the same environment as their team, the expectations around emotional intelligence can be greater. — Nishtha Sareen, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026 Drinkwitz recalled getting phone calls throughout Mother’s Day as team physicians Tiffany Bohon and Clayton Nuelle facilitated with medical personnel at Forrest General Hospital in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, where Hardy was treated. — Pj Green august 4, Kansas City Star, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for physician

Word History

Etymology

Middle English phisicien, fisicien, from Anglo-French, from phisique medicine

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of physician was in the 13th century

Phrases Containing physician

Rhymes for physician

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Browse Nearby Words

physic garden
physician
physician's assistant
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Cite this Entry

“Physician.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/physician. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

physician

noun
phy·​si·​cian fə-ˈzish-ən How to pronounce physician (audio)
: a specialist in healing human diseases
especially : one educated and licensed to practice medicine

Medical Definition

physician

noun
phy·​si·​cian fə-ˈzish-ən How to pronounce physician (audio)
: a health care professional who has earned a medical degree, is clinically experienced, and is licensed to practice medicine : a doctor of medicine or a doctor of osteopathic medicine

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