anesthesiologist
anesthesiologist Lexical Profile
• noun
North American A physician who specializes in administering anesthesia, managing pain, and monitoring a patient's vital signs before, during, and after surgical or medical procedures.
"The anesthesiologist met with the patient before the operation to review her medical history and explain how the sedative would work."
Word Nuance & Usage
In American English, an "anesthesiologist" is specifically a licensed medical doctor (MD or DO), whereas an "anesthetist" typically refers to a certified registered nurse (CRNA) who administers anesthesia. In British and Commonwealth English, however, "anaesthetist" is the standard term for the medical doctor.
• Rhymes for anesthesiologist
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in the early 20th century from "anesthesiology" + "-ist", ultimately rooted in Ancient Greek "anaisthesia" (lack of sensation), from "an-" (without) and "aisthesis" (sensation or perception).