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Synonyms

practical nurse

American  

noun

  1. a person who has not graduated from an accredited school of nursing but whose vocation is caring for the sick.


Etymology

Origin of practical nurse

First recorded in 1920–25

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.

“We don’t really have to worry about getting our bills paid,” says licensed practical nurse Miranda Mammen.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

The panel proposes that ratios of health aides to residents be established and that either a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse be available on-site.

From Washington Post • Dec. 3, 2022

She spent her adult years working as an X-ray technician, a licensed practical nurse, a motel clerk and a nurse’s aide for older people.

From New York Times • Jun. 24, 2022

John is a pilot and Abbie is a licensed practical nurse.

From Fox News • Dec. 7, 2021

Trained nurses get thirty and forty dollars a week and a practical nurse gets seven or eight, and works harder.

From The Girl Scouts Rally Rosanna Wins by Galt, Katherine Keene

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