physiatrist

noun

phys·​iat·​rist ˌfi-zē-ˈa-trist How to pronounce physiatrist (audio)
fi-ˈzī-ə-trist
Synonyms of physiatristnext
: a physician who specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation

Examples of physiatrist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
An orthopedic surgeon is a reasonable choice, as is a physical medicine doctor (physiatrist). — Dr. Keith Roach, oregonlive, 25 Aug. 2023 As a physiatrist, her practice centered on the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of disabilities related to the brain, nerves, bones and muscles. — Frederick N. Rasmussen, Baltimore Sun, 6 July 2023 Good options include orthopedic physicians, physiatrists (who specialize in treating pain and physical impairments), or physical therapists. — Cindy Kuzma, SELF, 29 Oct. 2024 Crandell, the Harvard physiatrist, is a funny, brainy, and upbeat clinician who treats people with amputations in the Spaulding Rehabilitation Center, a building overlooking Boston Harbor. — Rivka Galchen, The New Yorker, 9 Dec. 2024 The study’s results are also promising because, unlike many forms of activity, walking is a safe and accessible exercise for most people, added Paul Cooke, MD, assistant attending physiatrist at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. — Maggie O'Neill, Health, 3 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

physiatrics physical medicine, from Greek physis + International Scientific Vocabulary -iatrics

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of physiatrist was in 1946

Rhymes for physiatrist

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Browse Nearby Words

physianthropy
physiatrist
physiatry
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Cite this Entry

“Physiatrist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/physiatrist. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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