Patient
/ˈpeɪʃənt/
Definitions
2 meaningsA person under medical care or treatment.
/ˈpeɪʃənt/
A person receiving medical care.
The patient waited for the doctor to call their name.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone going to the doctor because they're not feeling well. That person is the patient! They're getting help to feel better. Like when you have a boo-boo and your mom gives you a band-aid.
👶 For kids: Someone who is sick or hurt and is getting help from a doctor or nurse.
More Examples
The nurse checked on all the patients in the ward.
The hospital provided excellent care to its patients.
How It's Used
"The doctor examined the patient's symptoms."
Able to accept or tolerate delays, problems, or suffering without becoming annoyed or anxious.
/ˈpeɪʃənt/
Able to wait calmly.
She was very patient as she waited for her turn.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're waiting for your birthday! Being patient means you can wait without getting all wiggly and wanting it to be here RIGHT NOW. It means being calm and not getting upset.
👶 For kids: Being able to wait for something without getting upset.
More Examples
The teacher was patient with the students who were struggling.
It takes a patient approach to learn a new skill.
How It's Used
"She was patient while waiting in line."
"The teacher was patient with the slow learners."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
Patience is a virtue
It is good to be patient.
"When dealing with a slow internet connection, remember that patience is a virtue."
From Middle English pacient, from Old French pacient, from Latin patiens, present participle of pati, to suffer, endure.
The word 'patient' has been used in both medical and general contexts since the Middle Ages, initially referring to those suffering from illness and then expanding to include those demonstrating the ability to endure hardships calmly.
Memory tip
Think of a person lying *patiently* in bed while getting medical treatment.