intensive care

American  

noun

1. the use of specialized equipment and personnel for continuous monitoring and care of the critically ill.

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intensive care British  

noun

1. extensive and continuous care and treatment provided for an acutely ill patient, usually in a specially designated section ( intensive care unit ) of a hospital

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Etymology

Origin of intensive care

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

Operating theatres, intensive care units and even maternity wards have been relocated to protected subterranean spaces.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

Dr Vincenzo Cuzzone, head of the intensive care unit at Cardarelli hospital in nearby Campobasso, told Italian media that liver failure occurred first and was followed by multi-organ failure "at truly unparalleled speed".

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

She was working as an intensive care nurse when her life was turned upside down.

From BBC • Mar. 16, 2026

After James was born, he spent four days in the neonatal intensive care unit, where he had to be tube-fed, and was put on a machine to help his breathing.

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2026

If laughing was hazardous to your health, I’d be in intensive care right now.

From "Crash" by Jerry Spinelli