WordGarden.iopediatric
C2Pronunciation
UK
US
- /ˌpidiˈætrɪk/
Meanings
Adjective
relating to the medical care of children
Beyond the definition
Imagine a doctor who only treats babies, toddlers, and teenagers. That's a pediatrician. The word "pediatric" comes from the Greek words "paidos" (child) and "iatros" (physician). So anything labeled "pediatric" is made for or related to children's medical care. You might see "pediatric dentistry" on a sign, meaning dental care for kids, or find a "pediatric ward" at a hospital where young patients receive care. It is not just smaller medicine for smaller people; it is care shaped around growing bodies and minds.
"Pediatric" is an adjective that describes anything relating to the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents – generally up to age 18 or 21 depending on the context. It's a specialized field of medicine focused on the physical, emotional, and social health of young people. Think beyond just treating illnesses; pediatricians also focus on preventative care like vaccinations and developmental screenings.
You'll encounter "pediatric" in many contexts: "Pediatric cardiology" refers to heart care for children, while a "pediatric dosage" is the amount of medicine safe for a child's weight and age. A hospital might have a dedicated "pediatric intensive care unit (PICU)" for critically ill children.
The field recognizes that children aren't just small adults! Their bodies are still developing, they communicate differently, and their needs require specialized knowledge and sensitivity. Pediatricians often work closely with families to ensure the best possible health outcomes for their young patients. You might even see "pediatric-friendly" environments designed to make kids feel comfortable during medical visits – think colorful decorations and playful waiting rooms.
So, whenever you see or hear "pediatric," remember it's all about caring for the unique needs of children as they grow and thrive.
Examples
- 1
Clinic
The hospital opened a new pediatric clinic last month.
- 2
Nursing
She works as a pediatric nurse in the emergency room.
- 3
Medicine dosage
Ask your doctor for the correct pediatric dose before giving the medicine.
- Phrasepediatric dose
amount of medicine that is safe for a child
- 4
Patients
The study looked at how the treatment affects pediatric patients.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Intensive care
After the accident, he was moved to the pediatric intensive care unit.
- Phrasepediatric intensive care unit
hospital unit for very sick or seriously injured children
See also
Similar
- paediatric
Shades of meaning
- neonatal
- child-focused
Contrast
- adult
- geriatric
Used with (collocations)
- pediatric care
- pediatric patient
- pediatric hospital
- pediatric dose
Word family
- pediatrics
- pediatrician
Explore
- child health
- developmental medicine
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- pediatricadjective