noun
consultant
kuhn-SUHL-tuhnt
noun
1
A person hired for their specialist expertise or advice, usually on a temporary or independent basis.
"The company hired a consultant to overhaul its marketing strategy."
2
British English: a senior hospital doctor who has completed specialist training.
"She was referred to a consultant at the hospital for further tests."
How to Use Consultant
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn expert brought in to advise, either in business or (in the UK) as a senior hospital doctor.
UK vs US
In the UK, "consultant" often means a senior specialist doctor — the rough equivalent of an "attending physician" in the US.
Common pairings
hire a consultant
a management consultant
see a consultant
Word Forms
consultants plural
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The company hired a _____ to overhaul its marketing strategy.
Etymology
From French consultant, present participle of consulter, "to consult."