Hospital Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🏥
hospital
[ˈhɒspɪtl ]
Definitions
medical care
A hospital is a place where people who are ill or injured are treated and cared for by doctors and nurses.
Synonyms
clinic, infirmary, medical center.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hospital |
A large medical facility offering extensive inpatient and outpatient care, often complete with surgery, intensive care, and various specialized departments.
|
| clinic |
A smaller facility offering outpatient services for minor illnesses, preventative care, or specialized treatments; often doesn't handle major surgeries or emergencies.
|
| infirmary |
Typically used in institutional settings such as schools, prisons, or military bases, often for minor ailments and first aid; it's less commonly used in everyday language.
|
| medical center |
A broad term for a facility, often including a hospital and additional clinics, research centers, and other health services under one organization.
|
Examples of usage
- He was rushed to the hospital after the car accident.
- She works as a nurse in a children's hospital.
- The hospital is equipped with the latest medical technology.
organization
A hospital can also refer to the entire institution or building where medical treatment is provided.
Synonyms
clinic, healthcare institution, medical facility.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hospital |
A hospital is a large building where people receive medical care, including surgery and emergency services. It is usually equipped to handle a wide range of health issues.
|
| medical facility |
A medical facility is any place where medical services are provided, including hospitals, clinics, urgent care centers, and specialized treatment centers.
|
| healthcare institution |
A healthcare institution is a broad term that can refer to any organization providing healthcare services, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized care centers.
|
| clinic |
A clinic is a smaller medical facility where people go for outpatient treatment, such as routine check-ups, vaccinations, and minor medical procedures.
|
Examples of usage
- The hospital is working on expanding its facilities.
- The local community raised funds to build a new hospital.
- The hospital staff includes doctors, nurses, and administrative personnel.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word originates from the Latin term 'hospitium', meaning 'guesthouse' or 'lodging', reflecting its early role in caring for travelers and the sick.
- In ancient Rome, the first hospices were established to provide care for the poor and injured, serving as precursors to modern hospitals.
- The establishment of the first dedicated hospital for the sick is often credited to the Persian physician Al-Razi in the 9th century.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, hospitals represent a crucial part of community health, often symbolizing compassion and healing.
- The design and architecture of hospitals can vary widely around the world, from grand historic buildings to sleek, modern structures promoting wellness.
- The role of hospitals has expanded to include centers for research, education, and emergency services, shaping modern healthcare systems.
Pop Culture
- Numerous TV shows and movies depict hospitals as places of drama and emotion, exploring the lives of healthcare workers and patients.
- The series 'Grey's Anatomy' has popularized the hospital setting, attracting fans with its blend of medical cases and character relationships.
- The image of hospitals is often contrasted in various forms of media, sometimes highlighting the struggles within healthcare systems.
Science and Medicine
- Hospitals are equipped with advanced medical technology, such as MRI machines and robotic surgery systems, to assist in diagnosing and treating diseases.
- The practice of medicine within hospitals involves teamwork, where nurses, doctors, and specialists collaborate for patient care.
- Infection control and hospital hygiene are critical areas of research, as they directly impact patient recovery and safety.
Psychology
- Hospital settings can influence emotional well-being, as patients may feel anxiety or fear upon entering for treatment.
- Healthcare professionals often receive training in empathy to better support patients' mental health in addition to their physical needs.
- Visiting a hospital can evoke a range of emotions, making understanding and support systems essential for patients and families.
Origin of 'hospital'
The word 'hospital' originates from the Latin word 'hospes' meaning 'host' or 'guest'. In ancient times, hospices were places of hospitality for the sick, wounded, or dying. Over time, the concept evolved into dedicated medical institutions providing care and treatment to the ill and injured. The modern hospital as we know it today has a long history of development and improvement in medical practices and facilities.
See also: hospitalization.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #1,286, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.
- ...
- 1283 models
- 1284 chemical
- 1285 evening
- 1286 hospital
- 1287 determination
- 1288 accounts
- 1289 combination
- ...