orthotics

noun

or·thot·ics ȯr-ˈthä-tiks

plural in form but singular in construction

: a branch of mechanical and medical science that deals with the design and fitting of orthoses

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of orthotics was in 1957

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orthotic

orthotics

orthotist

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Orthotics.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/orthotics. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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Medical Definition

orthotics

noun, plural in form but singular in construction

or·thot·ics -iks

: a branch of mechanical and medical science that deals with the design and fitting of orthoses

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