physician assistant

noun

: a person certified to provide basic medical services usually under the supervision of a licensed physician

called also PA, physician's assistant

Examples of physician assistant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sarah, who was studying to be a physician assistant, is being remembered for being career-driven and funny, Local 4 reported. Samira Asma-Sadeque, People.com, 2 Sep. 2025 These professionals include neurosurgery or orthopedic residents and fellows training to become specialists, as well as advanced practice providers, such as physician assistants and nurse practitioners. Richard Menger Md Mpa, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2025 Protections were also broadened to cover physician assistants, registered nurses, dentists, midwives and other health care practitioners. Aldo Svaldi, Denver Post, 21 Aug. 2025 These cuts could also worsen outcomes for the women who lose coverage, physician assistant specialist Amy Klingler explained. Rachael Dziaba, ABC News, 20 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for physician assistant

Word History

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of physician assistant was in 1958

Cite this Entry

“Physician assistant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/physician%20assistant. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

physician assistant

noun
physician as·​sis·​tant
-ə-ˈsis-tənt
variants also physician's assistant
: a specially trained person who is certified to provide basic medical services (as the diagnosis and treatment of common ailments) usually under the supervision of a licensed physician

called also PA

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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