What does pediatrician mean?
A pediatrician is a doctor who specializes in the health and medical care of children and adolescents. The role includes diagnosing and treating illnesses, monitoring growth and development, and advising families on prevention, nutrition, and everyday care. In conversation, people may call this doctor a “children's doctor,” a phrase that is easy to understand but less formal. The word comes from Greek roots meaning “child” and “physician,” and is used in both British and American English. It is related to the adjective “pediatric,” the field of “pediatrics,” and the less common term “pediatrist.” A pediatrician is especially useful for children whose medical needs are age-specific, developmental, or complex.
nounA pediatrician is a physician who specializes in the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents.
- A medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses and conditions affecting children and adolescents.
"She took her son to the pediatrician because he had a persistent fever."
"The pediatrician explained that the cough was likely caused by a common viral infection."
"Our pediatrician recommended that we make an appointment with a specialist."
"A pediatrician can advise parents on nutrition, development, and preventive care."
The standard plural is “pediatricians.”
"The hospital employs several pediatricians who specialize in childhood asthma."
From the Greek roots for “child” and “physician,” the word has always meant a doctor for young people.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pediatrician come from?
“Pediatrician” comes from the Greek pais, meaning “child,” and iatros, meaning “physician,” through the related medical terminology based on French and Latin forms. The word entered English in the 19th century as a specialist designation for a physician who treats children. Its relatives include “pediatrics,” the branch of medicine concerned with children, and “pediatric,” describing care or medicine related to children.
Related word forms
How pediatrician is actually used
The term is standard in both British and American English. It is often used informally as “children's doctor,” while “pediatrician” is the more formal medical designation.
Easily confused with pediatrician
A pediatrician is a physician who treats children, while a pediatrician is also the standard term for a physician specializing in children's health.