noun
EMT
ee-em-TEE
EMT (noun) means a trained responder who gives emergency medical care at the scene of an accident or illness and during the journey to hospital, usually working on an ambulance. Example: “An EMT was already treating him for shock when the doctor arrived.”
noun
1
A trained responder who gives emergency medical care at the scene of an accident or illness and during the journey to hospital, usually working on an ambulance.
"An EMT was already treating him for shock when the doctor arrived."
"She worked as an EMT for six years before applying to medical school."
How to use EMT
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone trained to treat people in an ambulance.
When to use it
Standard, chiefly American.
Memory tip
Write it in capitals with no full stops, and use "an" before it: an EMT.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
EMT vs paramedic
EMT vs first responder
Common pairings
certified EMT
EMT training
work as an EMT
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like EMT.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
An _____ was already treating him for shock when the doctor arrived.
Etymology
An initialism of emergency medical technician.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an EMT and a paramedic?
In the American system both work on ambulances, but a paramedic has completed considerably more training and can perform advanced procedures such as inserting a breathing tube, reading a cardiac monitor and giving a wide range of drugs. An EMT handles assessment, oxygen, bleeding control, CPR and a limited set of medications.
Is EMT used outside the United States?
Mostly it is an American term. Britain, Ireland and Australia normally speak of ambulance technicians and paramedics, though EMT is widely understood because of American television.
How long does it take to become an EMT?
Basic EMT courses in the United States typically run a few months, after which candidates sit a certification exam. Paramedic training takes considerably longer, often one to two years on top of that.
What is the meaning of EMT?
"EMT" (noun) means a trained responder who gives emergency medical care at the scene of an accident or illness and during the journey to hospital, usually working on an ambulance.
