geriatrics

[jer-ee-a-triks, jeer-]

noun (used with a singular verb)

the branch of medicine dealing with the diseases, debilities, and care of aged persons.

the study of the physical processes and problems of aging; gerontology.

Origin of geriatrics

First recorded in 1905–10; see origin at geriatric, -ics

Related formsger·i·a·tri·cian

[jer-ee-uh-trish-uh n] /ˌdʒɛr i əˈtrɪʃ ən/, ger·i·at·rist, noun

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for geriatrician

Contemporary Examples of geriatrician

As a geriatrician, I spend my time exploring life beyond adulthood.
How an iPod Can Fight Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Dr. Bill Thomas
July 20, 2014
I need to be more educated about eating disorders and violence prevention than a geriatrician, for example.
Today’s Clean-Cut Teens: Less Sex, Less Drugs
Russell Saunders
May 28, 2014

Historical Examples of geriatrician

On her sleeve she wore the badge of geriatrician, with the motto, "To Care for the Aged."
Life Sentence
James McConnell

British Dictionary definitions for geriatrician

geriatrician

geriatrist (ˌdʒɛrɪˈætrɪst)

noun

a physician who specializes in geriatric medicine

geriatrics

noun

(functioning as singular) the branch of medical science concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting older peopleCompare gerontology

usage

The term geriatric medicine is often used nowadays in preference to geriatrics

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Word Origin and History for geriatrician

geriatrics

coined 1909 by Austrian-born doctor Ignatz L. Nascher (1863-1944) in "New York Medical Journal" on the model of pediatrics (cf. -ics), from the same elements found in geriatric (q.v.). The correct formation would be gerontiatrics.

Medicine definitions for geriatrician