pediatrics
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Inflected Forms
Nouns
Etymology
Origin of pediatrics
Explanation
If you're taking a little kid to the doctor, look for a sign that says pediatrics. Physicians who treat children and babies specialize in pediatrics. Different branches of medicine focus on different groups of people or specific illnesses. While pediatrics is all about young people from birth to their teens, geriatrics, for example, focuses on elderly people. A medical student who specializes in pediatrics will eventually be a pediatrician, or children's doctor. The root of pediatrics is the Greek word for "child," pais.
Vocabulary lists containing pediatrics
National Nurses Week: Medical Branches and Conditions
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iatr (healing); therap (medical treatment)
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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.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends families prioritize non-digital activities such as play and social interaction for children 5 and under.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 23, 2026
After reports that vitamin K deficiency bleeding was on the rise, the American Academy of Pediatrics updated its policy statement in 2022 to stress the shot’s safety and efficacy.
From Salon • May 7, 2026
The American Academy of Pediatrics and other large medical groups had sued, saying Kennedy's changes violated federal law.
From BBC • Mar. 17, 2026
A narrative review published in World Journal of Pediatrics, by researchers at Boston Children's Hospital explored the rapid rise of melatonin use among children and adolescents worldwide.
From Science Daily • Mar. 15, 2026
“Yeah. Her dad is on the board and recommended me. It’s the Pediatrics Nursing Manager. This is my second interview for it actually. They want some of the higher-ups to interview me this time.”
From "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
