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Definition of psychiatrist
psychiatrist
/sɪˈkaɪ.ə.trɪst/
psy · chi · a · trist
Adverb:psychiatrically
•Plural:psychiatrists
•Adjective:psychiatric
psychiatrist Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
7
Tier
2
Usage
Top 5k
Syllables
4
psychiatrist Game Scores & Validity
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• noun
1
A medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders, including the prescription of psychiatric medications.
Example
"The patient scheduled an appointment with a psychiatrist to discuss adjusting her antidepressant dosage."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for psychiatristWord Nuance & Usage
Often confused with 'psychologist': a psychiatrist is a licensed medical doctor (M.D. or D.O.) who can prescribe medication, whereas a psychologist typically holds a doctoral degree in psychology (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and focuses primarily on psychotherapy and psychological testing.
• Rhymes for psychiatrist
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the mid-19th century from 'psychiatry', derived from Ancient Greek 'psyche' (mind, soul) and 'iatros' (physician, healer).
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Psychiatrist. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/psychiatrist