occupational therapy

noun

: therapy based on engagement in meaningful activities of daily life (such as self-care skills, education, work, or social interaction) especially to enable or encourage participation in such activities despite impairments or limitations in physical or mental functioning

occupational therapist noun

Examples of occupational therapy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Over the years, Alexa, who goes by @sicksadgirly on TikTok, has undergone extensive treatment, from physical and occupational therapy to vestibular rehab, all while facing major setbacks — including a blood clot in her internal jugular vein caused by a treatment port. —Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 2 Apr. 2026

The music helped 21-year-old Kyra Mulder focus on a project for her occupational therapy degree at the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences. —ABC News, 26 Mar. 2026

Physical therapy aims to improve strength and mobility, while speech therapy and occupational therapy can help with communication and restore daily functioning. —Kara Rogers , Encyclopedia Britannica, 19 Mar. 2026

Jake Laferriere, a former Minneapolis firefighter who was treated at HCMC's burn center, said the hospital saved his life and continued to support his recovery through physical and occupational therapy. —Susan-Elizabeth Littlefield, CBS News, 17 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1915, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for occupational therapy

• brachytherapy
• chemotherapy
• cryotherapy
• hydrotherapy
• hypnotherapy
• monotherapy
• phototherapy
• psychotherapy
• sclerotherapy
• immunotherapy
• pharmacotherapy
• physiotherapy

Medical Definition

occupational therapy

noun

: therapy based on engagement in meaningful activities of daily life (as self-care skills, education, work, or social interaction) especially to enable or encourage participation in such activities despite impairments or limitations in physical or mental functioning