physical therapist

noun

plural physical therapists

: a person licensed to practice physical therapy : a health care professional who provides therapy to preserve, enhance, or restore movement and physical function that are impaired or threatened by disease, injury, or disability

… a physical therapist can show you exercises to maintain strength and movement in the affected area and may also use transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation …

—Self Healing

While activity may worsen pain, activity directed by physical therapists, which may be done in therapy sessions and sometimes at home, provides some relief.

—Schenectady (New York) Daily Gazette

—abbreviation PT

called also physiotherapist

Examples of physical therapist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In fact, many falls can be avoided with preventive interventions by physical therapists. —Brian Frost, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 Apr. 2026

Thinking on her feet, Ashley says Austin is also a physical therapist. —Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 16 Apr. 2026

Never mind that Austin lacks the training to be a legit physical therapist. —Randy Myers, Mercury News, 16 Apr. 2026

People with mobility issues also may benefit from working with a physical therapist who can help to tailor exercises appropriate to their specific situation. —Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 15 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1908, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for physical therapist

• physiotherapist
• psychotherapist

Kids Definition

physical therapist

noun

: a person who is a specialist in physical therapy

Medical Definition

physical therapist

noun

: a person licensed to practice physical therapy : a health care professional who provides therapy to preserve, enhance, or restore movement and physical function that are impaired or threatened by disease, injury, or disability

—abbreviation PT

called also physiotherapist