Nurse

Definition

Nurse can function as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a person trained to care for the sick or infirm, typically in a hospital or clinic setting. As a verb, it means to care for someone who is ill or to nurture and foster something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nɜːrs/
• Respelling: NURS

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nɜːs/
• Respelling: NURS

Etymology

The word "nurse" originates from the Old French "norrice" or "nurrice," meaning "wet nurse" or "nanny," derived from the Latin "nutricia" (a female caregiver or feeder), which stems from "nutrire" (to nourish). Its modern meaning evolved to include professional medical caregivers during the 16th century.

Derivatives

• Nursing (noun/verb)
• Nursemaid (noun)
• Nurse's aide (noun)
• Nurture (verb, related root)
• Wet nurse (noun)

Synonyms

• Caregiver
• Attendant
• Healer

Antonyms

• Neglecter
• Abandoner
• None

Usage

The term "nurse" is widely used in healthcare and caregiving contexts. For example: "The nurse administered medication to the patient," or "She nursed the plant back to health."

Related Terms

• Doctor: A professional qualified to diagnose and treat illnesses.
• Caregiver: Someone who provides care to the sick, elderly, or disabled.
• Nurture: To care for and encourage the growth or development of something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person trained to care for the sick or infirm: Refers to a healthcare professional.
  • Example: "The nurse checked the patient's vital signs."
• A caregiver for young children (historical): Refers to someone responsible for childcare, such as a nanny.
  • Example: "The wealthy family employed a nurse for their children."

Verb

• To care for someone who is ill or injured: Indicates providing medical or personal care.
  • Example: "She nursed him back to health after the accident."
• To nurture or foster something: Refers to encouraging the growth or development of a person, idea, or thing.
  • Example: "He nursed a passion for painting."
• To feed a baby at the breast (breastfeed): Used to describe maternal care.
  • Example: "The mother nursed her newborn in the rocking chair."