Medical

Definition

Medical is an adjective referring to anything related to the science, practice, or study of medicine. It is often used to describe health-related matters, treatments, or professionals.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɛd.ɪ.kəl/
• Respelling: MED-ih-kul

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɛd.ɪ.kəl/
• Respelling: MED-ih-kul

Etymology

The word "medical" originates from the Latin "medicus," meaning "physician" or "healer," and "mederi," meaning "to heal." It entered Middle English through Old French in the late Middle Ages.

Derivatives

• Medically (adverb)
• Medicalize (verb)
• Medicalization (noun)
• Medicate (verb)
• Medicine (noun)

Synonyms

• Clinical
• Healthcare
• Therapeutic

Antonyms

• Nonmedical
• Unrelated
• Nonclinical

Usage

The term "medical" is used to describe fields, conditions, or objects associated with medicine. For example, "She is studying at a medical school" or "The patient received medical attention immediately after the accident."

Related Terms

• Medicine: The science or practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease.
• Healthcare: The maintenance or improvement of health through medical services.
• Physician: A medical professional who practices medicine.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Relating to the science or practice of medicine: Describes anything connected to the field of health or treatment of diseases.
  • Example: "The hospital is equipped with advanced medical technology."
• Involving the treatment or diagnosis of illnesses: Refers to processes or items used in healthcare.
  • Example: "She is undergoing medical treatment for her condition."