just what the doctor ordered

Idioms

Exactly what was needed. For example, This steak is just what the doctor ordered, or You've been a great help in our office—just what the doctor ordered. This expression alludes to a physician's prescription for a cure. [First half of 1900s]

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

just what the doctor ordered

A more forgiving environment in Washington, D.C., combined with a slowing economy could be just what the doctor ordered for pharma stocks.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 2, 2025

The Angels had returned home dragging a four-game losing streak, and Trout said Neto was just what the doctor ordered.

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 19, 2025

In that regard, the Indo-Pacific Quad will be just what the doctor ordered.

From BBC ● Feb. 11, 2025

Fortunately for those of us who are incarcerated, pen-pal services are just what the doctor ordered.

From Slate ● Sep. 12, 2023

But on this occasion, a fernibuster was just what the doctor ordered.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood

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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023