Patient: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to someone receiving medical treatment, generally in any medical setting. It is neutral and commonly used.

• The doctor asked the patient about their symptoms.
• The patient is recovering well after the surgery.

Refers to someone receiving professional services, such as legal, counseling, or business services. It is not specific to medical settings.

• The attorney met with her client to discuss the lawsuit.
• The therapist scheduled weekly sessions with her client.

Used to refer to a particular instance of a disease or medical condition. It can also refer to non-medical situations in legal or social work settings.

• The hospital reported five new cases of the flu this week.
• In legal terms, the lawyer reviewed the details of the case.

Specifically denotes a patient who stays in the hospital while receiving treatment. This term is used in contrast to 'out-patient,' who receives treatment without staying overnight.

• The in-patient will be monitored for 24 hours after the operation.
• The hospital has a separate ward for in-patient care.

When someone is able to wait for something without becoming annoyed or anxious.

• She was patient while waiting for the doctor to see her
• He is patient when teaching his son to ride a bike

When someone is accepting of differences or willing to endure certain behaviors or opinions.

• She is very tolerant of her colleagues' different viewpoints
• He shows a tolerant attitude towards cultural diversity

When a person is not feeling or showing strong emotions, especially anger, joy, or excitement.

• He stayed calm during the emergency
• She remained calm despite the chaos around her

When a person is in control of their feelings, especially in a stressful situation.

• She appeared composed even during the intense meeting
• Despite the bad news, he remained composed