diagnose

[dahy-uhg-nohs, -nohz, dahy-uhg-nohs, -nohz]

verb (used with object)

diagnosed, diagnosing 

1. to determine the identity of (a disease, illness, etc.) by a medical examination.

   The doctor diagnosed the illness as influenza.

2. to ascertain the cause or nature of (a disorder, malfunction, problem, etc.) from the symptoms.

   The mechanic diagnosed the trouble that caused the engine knock.

3. to classify or determine on the basis of scientific examination.

verb (used without object)

diagnosed, diagnosing 

1. to make a diagnosis.

diagnose

/ ˈdaɪəɡˌnəʊz /

verb

1. to determine or distinguish by diagnosis

2. (tr) to examine (a person or thing), as for a disease

Other Word Forms

• diagnosable adjective
• underdiagnose verb (used with object)
• undiagnosable adjective
• undiagnosed adjective
• well-diagnosed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of diagnose¹

First recorded in 1860–65; back formation from diagnosis

Example Sentences

Research from 2024 shows that almost half of women diagnosed with breast cancer at the County Durham trust had a mastectomy.

Read more on BBC

To understand how these findings relate to brain aging, the team compared their results with data from older adults diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease.

Read more on Science Daily

The judge ordered Cowen, who is diagnosed with schizophrenia, be detained in hospital for an "indefinite duration" under Section 37/41 of the Mental Health Act.

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Among them are nurse practitioners, who are able to diagnose illnesses and write prescriptions.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

“But that means you need to get diagnosed earlier,” Chin-Hong said.

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Related Words

• analyze 
• determine 
• investigate 
• pinpoint 
• pronounce 
• recognize