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Anaesthetist: meaning, definitions and examples

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anaesthetist

 

[ ˌeɪ.nəˈθet.ɪst ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

medical professional

An anaesthetist is a medical doctor trained in anaesthesia, responsible for administering anaesthetic agents during surgeries and other medical procedures. They monitor patients' vital signs and ensure their comfort and safety while under anaesthesia. Anaesthetists play a critical role in pain management and sedation.

Synonyms

anaesthesiologist, anaesthetic practitioner, anesthetist

Examples of usage

  • The anaesthetist ensured I was comfortable before the surgery.
  • She worked closely with the anaesthetist to manage post-operative pain.
  • The anaesthetist monitored the patient's vitals throughout the procedure.

Word origin

The word 'anaesthetist' is derived from the Greek word 'anaisthesis', meaning 'lack of feeling' or 'insensibility', combined with the suffix '-ist' which denotes a person who specializes in a certain field. The term began to appear in medical literature in the 19th century, coinciding with the development of modern anaesthesia practices. It reflects the shift from traditional surgical practices, which often did not address patient pain, to a more humane approach to medicine where pain relief is prioritized. As surgical techniques advanced and the understanding of pain and sedation improved, the role of the anaesthetist became essential in surgeries, leading to the establishment of anaesthetics as a recognized medical specialty.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,837 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.