Pathologist

/pəˈθɒlədʒɪst/

nounmediumCommonMedical

Definitions

1

A medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis of diseases by examining tissues and body fluids.

/pəˈθɒlədʒɪst/

nounneutralmedium
Medical

A doctor who examines body tissues and fluids to diagnose diseases.

The pathologist confirmed the presence of cancer cells in the tissue sample.

💡 Simply: Imagine a detective, but instead of solving crimes, they solve medical mysteries by looking at cells and tissues under a microscope. That's a pathologist!

👶 For kids: A special doctor who looks at tiny parts of your body to find out what's making you sick.

More Examples

2

The hospital relies on the pathologist's expertise for accurate diagnoses.

3

She is a highly respected pathologist with years of experience in the field.

How It's Used

Medical

"The pathologist examined the biopsy to determine the cause of the patient's illness."

Healthcare

"A pathologist plays a key role in diagnosing and treating diseases."

From Greek *pathos* (suffering, disease) + *-logy* (study of) + *-ist* (one who). The word originated in the late 19th century.

Historically, pathologists have played a crucial role in advancing medical understanding, particularly in identifying the causes and mechanisms of various diseases. Their findings have often guided treatment decisions.

Memory tip

Think of a doctor who studies *pathos* (disease) to help others.

Word Origin

Root: pathos

pathalogistpatholigistpathologist

Usage

15%Spoken
85%Written