doctor
UK: ˈdɒktə | US: ˈdɑːktər
n. a qualified medical professional who treats illnesses or injuries
n. a person who holds the highest academic degree from a university (Ph.D.)
vt. to alter or falsify something dishonestly (e.g., documents)
doctor = doct<teach> + or<agent noun suffix>
- doct (from Latin docēre, meaning "to teach")
- or (Latin agent suffix indicating a person who performs an action)
Etymology Origin:
The word "doctor" originates from Latin doctor ("teacher"), derived from docēre ("to teach"). Initially, it referred to scholars or authoritative teachers, especially in theology or philosophy. By the 14th century, it expanded to include licensed medical practitioners, reflecting their role as "healers who teach" health principles. The verb sense ("to falsify") emerged in the 18th century, metaphorically implying "altering truth."
She visited the doctor for a routine check-up.
He earned his doctorate in molecular biology.
The documents were doctored to hide the evidence.
Ancient Greek doctors like Hippocrates laid the foundation for modern medicine.
As a doctor of philosophy, she specializes in ethics.