orthopedic

adjective

or·​tho·​pe·​dic ˌȯr-thə-ˈpē-dik 

variants or less commonly orthopaedic

1

: of, relating to, or employed in orthopedics

an orthopedic surgeon

orthopedic shoes

2

: marked by or affected with a skeletal deformity, disorder, or injury

an orthopedic condition

people with orthopedic problems

orthopedically

ˌȯr-thə-ˈpē-di-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of orthopedic in a Sentence

She was wearing orthopedic shoes.

Recent Examples on the Web

The hospital includes two operating rooms, a pharmacy and a laboratory, while doctors continue performing orthopedic surgeries and treating infections and other conditions left untreated in the aftermath of the disaster. — Jasmine Baehr, FOXNews.com, 22 July 2026

The cutest sandal styles don’t always have the best arch support or traction—not to mention, our feet have to grip to hold them in place—while orthopedic sandals aren’t typically known for their stylish aesthetic. — Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 20 July 2026

Hijaz is planning to study orthopedic sports surgery, but largely for a different reason than being a former athlete. — Michelle L. Quinn, Chicago Tribune, 17 July 2026

Birkenstock Glenda Sandals Known for their orthopedic-level support and minimalist styling, the Birkenstock Glenda Sandals are a beachy yet elevated option. — Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 16 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

French orthopédique, from orthopédie orthopedics, from orth- + Greek paid-, pais child — more at few

First Known Use

1829, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for orthopedic

• glycosidic
• orthopaedic
• comedic
• encyclopaedic
• encyclopedic

Kids Definition

orthopedic

adjective

or·​tho·​pe·​dic ˌȯr-thə-ˈpēd-ik 

1

: of, relating to, or used in orthopedics

2

: marked by or affected with skeletal deformity, disorder, or injury

Medical Definition

orthopedic

adjective

or·​tho·​pe·​dic

variants or chiefly British orthopaedic

ˌȯr-thə-ˈpēd-ik 

1

: of, relating to, or employed in orthopedics

orthopedic surgery

orthopedic casts

2

: marked by or affected with a deformity, disorder, or injury of the skeleton and associated structures

orthopedically adverb

or chiefly British orthopaedically

-ˈpēd-i-k(ə-)lē