operating room

American  

noun

1. a specially equipped room, usually in a hospital, where surgical procedures are performed. OR

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Etymology

Origin of operating room

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

“We had a colloquial term in the operating room: December Deductible Derby,” said Dr. Parcells, noting that patients seeking insurance-covered surgeries like breast augmentations have deductibles in mind.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 7, 2026

"There's a lot of interesting emotional circuits that are deep in the brain, but until now you couldn't manipulate them outside of the operating room."

From Science Daily • Feb. 4, 2026

"My love has just gone to the operating room," Bolsonaro's wife Michelle said in an Instagram post.

From Barron's • Dec. 25, 2025

“They let me in the operating room, and it was tough to watch what she was going through, and amazing to see Ryu delivered. So yes, many prayers have been answered.”

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 12, 2025

With a steady hand on Doha’s back, father and son walked out of the office, past the family weeping in the operating room, and to the front desk where Nurse Cha was sitting.

From "Finding Junie Kim" by Ellen Oh