orthopedics

American  

[awr-thuh-pee-diks] / ˌɔr θəˈpi dɪks /

Or orthopaedics

noun

1. (used with a singular verb) the medical specialty concerned with correction of deformities or functional impairments of the skeletal system, especially the extremities and the spine, and associated structures, as muscles and ligaments.

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orthopedics Scientific  

/ ôr′thə-pē′dĭks /

1. The branch of medicine that deals with the treatment of disorders or injuries of the bones, joints, and associated muscles.

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orthopedics Cultural  

1. The branch of medicine devoted to the study and care of the muscular and skeletal systems.

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Other Word Forms

• orthopedist noun

Etymology

Origin of orthopedics

First recorded in 1850–55; see origin at orthopedic, -ics

Explanation

Use the noun orthopedics when you're talking about the medical specialty that treats the spine and joints. The name of the branch of medicine concerned with deformities of the spine and joints may be puzzling for Greek-root fans, who will notice the presence of elements that mean "straight," "right," "true," and "child." The name is the work of one of the branch's pioneers, Nicolas Andry de Bois-Regard, who wrote a 1741 work called "Orthopaedia: or the Art of Correcting and Preventing Deformities in Children."

Example Sentences

No sports region deserves this less than New England, where titles are routine, and orthopedics treat patients with tendonitis from clapping at too many championship parades.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 5, 2026

Roughly 40% of Stryker’s sales are in the orthopedics area, and 60% are in medical-surgical, or med-surg.

From Barron's • Jan. 16, 2026

J&J said the separation of orthopedics, which generated $9.2 billion in revenue in 2024, or 10.4% of total revenue, will increase overall revenue growth and improve profitability, given the improved focus.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 14, 2025

Dr. Jesse Chlebeck, an orthopedic surgeon and the associate medical director of orthopedics are Saltzer, told the Statesman he’s hard at work on his own plans for a private practice.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 13, 2024

In other words, there must be a system of moral orthopedics.

From Youth: Its Education, Regimen, and Hygiene by Hall, G. Stanley