orthotic

American

[awr-thot-ik] / ɔrˈθɒt ɪk /

noun

Also a device or support, especially for the foot, used to relieve or correct an orthopedic problem.

adjective

of or relating to orthotics.

Etymology

Origin of orthotic

1960–65; adjective derivative of orthosis (on the model of psychosis ( def. ): psychotic ( def. ), etc.); see -tic

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.

Because of her MS, a condition that affects the brain and spinal cord, she uses an orthotic to walk and competes with an ankle foot orthosis in her boot.

From BBC • Mar. 5, 2026

The new rule is a change from the agency’s previous position that it was unnecessary to register the orthotic braces with the NFA.

From Washington Times • Jun. 22, 2023

But if you have a more complex issue, he added, a custom orthotic might be needed.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 4, 2022

Mr. Karimi’s extraordinary engineering talents were developed over two decades in Afghanistan, designing, building and fitting artificial limbs and orthotic supports like braces and splints.

From New York Times • Aug. 27, 2021

Brandi and Mike Helvey brought several pairs of the special orthotic shoes that Jacob wears to support his legs.

From Washington Post • Jul. 18, 2019

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