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Definition of orthodontics

orthodontics

/ˌɔːr.θəˈdɑːn.tɪks/
or · tho · don · tics
Adverb:orthodontically
•
Adjective:orthodontic
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orthodontics Lexical Profile

orthodontics Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The specialized branch of dentistry concerned with diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws.

Example

"She decided to specialize in orthodontics after completing her general dental degree."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for orthodontics

Word Nuance & Usage

Although plural in form, 'orthodontics' is treated as a singular noun when referring to the medical specialty.

• Rhymes for orthodontics

• Nearby Words

ortanique
orthodontic
orthodontically
orthodontics
orthodontist
orthodox
orthodoxy

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 20th century from the Greek 'orthos' (straight, correct) and 'odous' or 'odont-' (tooth), with the suffix '-ics' denoting a science or practice.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Orthodontics. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/orthodontics
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