definitions
  • synonyms

orthopedics

or or·tho·pae·dics

[ awr-thuh-pee-diks ]
/ ˌɔr θəˈpi dɪks /

noun

(used with a singular verb) the medical specialty concerned with correction of deformities or functional impairments of the skeletal system, especially the extremities and the spine, and associated structures, as muscles and ligaments.

Nearby words

orthomyxoviridae, orthonormal, orthopaedic, orthopaedics, orthopedic, orthopedics, orthopedist, orthopercussion, orthophoria, orthophosphate, orthophosphoric acid

Origin of orthopedics

First recorded in 1850–55; see origin at orthopedic, -ics
Related formsor·tho·pe·dist, noun
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

British Dictionary definitions for orthopaedics

orthopaedics

US orthopedics

/ (ˌɔːθəʊˈpiːdɪks) /

noun (functioning as singular)

the branch of surgery concerned with disorders of the spine and joints and the repair of deformities of these parts
dental orthopaedics another name for orthodontics
Derived Formsorthopaedist or US orthopedist, noun
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

Medicine definitions for orthopaedics

orthopedics

n.

The branch of medicine that deals with the prevention and correction of injuries or disorders of the skeletal system and associated muscles, joints, and ligaments, often by surgery.
Related formsor′tho•pe′dic adj.
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.

Science definitions for orthopaedics

orthopedics

[ ôr′thə-pē′dĭks ]

The branch of medicine that deals with the treatment of disorders or injuries of the bones, joints, and associated muscles.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Culture definitions for orthopaedics

orthopedics

[ (awr-thuh-pee-diks) ]

The branch of medicine devoted to the study and care of the muscular and skeletal systems.

The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.