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. Example: “She was referred to an orthopaedic surgeon about her knee.”
How to Use Orthopaedic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo do with bones and joints, or made to support them properly.
Medical but in everyday use through consumer products.
Orthodontic concerns teeth, orthopaedic concerns bones and joints; both start with ortho- meaning 'straight'.
Trace the full origin ↓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.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for orthopaedic
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.