outpatient

noun

out·​pa·​tient ˈau̇t-ˌpā-shənt 

often attributive

: a patient who is not hospitalized overnight but who visits a hospital, clinic, or associated facility for diagnosis or treatment compare inpatient

Examples of outpatient in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Existing inpatient services will remain at Atrium Health Behavioral Health Davidson, while Atrium Health Behavioral Health Charlotte will continue to serve as an important access point for outpatient and crisis care. — Charlotte Observer, 15 Oct. 2026

The hospital is staffed during slow times and offers outpatient sites so patients don't have to drive an hour or more for routine care like physical therapy. — CBS News, 13 Oct. 2026

The institute expects to add 16 subspecialty providers, expand clinical trial opportunities and house outpatient therapy, rehabilitation and neuro infusion services, along with Baptist Health’s first academic lecture theater. — Miami Herald, 10 Oct. 2026

The Best Foods for Focus In general, Abigail Collen, MS, RD, outpatient clinical nutrition coordinator at Mount Sinai, recommends focusing on dietary patterns rather than a single food. — Audrey Noble, Vogue, 9 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1715, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for outpatient

• impatient
• inpatient
• patient

Kids Definition

outpatient

noun

out·​pa·​tient ˈau̇t-ˌpā-shənt 

: a patient who visits a hospital for diagnosis or treatment without staying overnight compare inpatient

Medical Definition

outpatient

noun

out·​pa·​tient ˈau̇t-ˌpā-shənt 

: a patient who is not hospitalized overnight but who visits a hospital, clinic, or associated facility for diagnosis or treatment compare inpatient