adjective

orthopaedic

or-thuh-PEE-dik

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Orthopaedic (adjective) means relating to the branch of medicine that deals with bones, joints, muscles, ligaments and tendons, and with correcting their deformities and injuries. Example: “She was referred to an orthopaedic surgeon about her knee.”

adjective

Relating to the branch of medicine that deals with bones, joints, muscles, ligaments and tendons, and with correcting their deformities and injuries.

"She was referred to an orthopaedic surgeon about her knee."

"The orthopaedic ward is on the third floor."

Designed to support the body correctly and relieve strain on the back, joints or feet.

"He sleeps far better since switching to an orthopaedic mattress."

"Orthopaedic insoles took most of the pain out of standing all day."

How to use orthopaedic

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo do with bones and joints, or made to support them properly.

When to use it

Medical but in everyday use through consumer products.

Memory tip

Orthodontic concerns teeth, orthopaedic concerns bones and joints; both start with ortho- meaning 'straight'.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

orthopedic → orthodontic orthotic osteopathic

Common pairings

orthopaedic surgeon orthopaedic mattress orthopaedic shoes orthopaedic ward

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “orthopaedic” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

She was referred to an _____ surgeon about her knee.

Etymology

From Greek orthos 'straight, correct' and paidion 'child', via French orthopédie. The name reflects the field's origins in correcting skeletal deformities in children.

Origin: Greek

Synonyms

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supportive corrective orthopedical orthopedic

Related words

helpful supportive disciplinary sympathetic sustaining corrective orthopedic curative

Rhymes for orthopaedic

medic comedic paramedic orthopedic

See all rhymes for orthopaedic →

Frequently asked questions

Is it orthopaedic or orthopedic?

Orthopaedic is the British spelling and orthopedic the American one; they are the same word. British hospitals and journals keep the -ae- spelling, while US practice dropped it.

What is the difference between an orthopaedic surgeon and a rheumatologist?

An orthopaedic surgeon treats structural problems of the musculoskeletal system, often operatively, such as fractures, torn ligaments and joint replacements. A rheumatologist treats inflammatory and autoimmune joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis with medication rather than surgery.

Does an orthopaedic mattress actually have to be certified?

No. In most markets the word is a marketing description rather than a regulated medical claim, so firmness and support vary widely between products sold under that label. Judge the mattress on its actual support, not on the word.

What is the meaning of orthopaedic?

"orthopaedic" (adjective) means relating to the branch of medicine that deals with bones, joints, muscles, ligaments and tendons, and with correcting their deformities and injuries.

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helpful supportive disciplinary sympathetic sustaining corrective orthopedic curative