pediatric
UK: ˌpiː.diˈæt.rɪk | US: ˌpiː.diˈæt.rɪk
adj. relating to the medical care and treatment of children
pediatric = ped<child> + iatr<medical treatment> + ic<adjective suffix>
- ped (from Greek pais/paidos): means "child" (seen in words like pedagogy or pedophile).
- iatr (from Greek iatros): means "healer" or "medical treatment" (seen in psychiatry or geriatrics).
- ic: a suffix forming adjectives, indicating "pertaining to."
Etymology Origin:
The word pediatric originates from Greek roots pais (child) and iatros (healer), combining to form iatrikos (healing). The modern term evolved through New Latin paediatricus, reflecting the specialized branch of medicine focused on children. The spelling ped- (instead of paed-) reflects American English simplification, while British English retains paediatric.
She specializes in pediatric care at the children's hospital.
The pediatric nurse comforted the toddler during the vaccination.
His research focuses on pediatric nutrition and growth disorders.
The clinic offers free pediatric consultations every Wednesday.
Pediatric oncology requires both medical expertise and emotional sensitivity.