plural doctors
1
a
: a person who is skilled in the science of medicine : a person who is trained and licensed to treat sick and injured people
I think you should see a doctor. [=physician]
He needed medicine but refused to go to a doctor.
a visit to the doctor's office = a doctor's visit
She was under doctor's orders not to return to work.
Most of her money goes to paying doctors' bills. [=bills for visits to doctors and medical treatment]
b
or the doctor's
: the place where a doctor works
I saw her at the doctor's last week.
How long will you be at the doctor?
2
US
a
: a dentist
—used chiefly as a title or as a form of address
My dentist is Dr. Smith.
b
: a person who is trained to treat sick and injured animals : veterinarian
an animal doctor
—used chiefly as a title or as a form of addressWe took our dog to Dr. Jones.
3
: a person who has the highest degree (such as a PhD) given by a university
Most of the faculty members at this college are doctors in their fields.
a Doctor of Philosophy
Dr. Smith, can you explain the exam requirements again?
doctors; doctored; doctoring
1
: to change (something) especially in order to trick or deceive people
They were accused of doctoring the company's financial records.
a doctored photo of the actress
2
: to add something (such as alcohol or drugs) to (a food or drink)
I think somebody doctored the punch.
3
: to give medical treatment to (an injury, a person, etc.)
He had time to doctor his wounds.
She doctored the sick child until the physician arrived.
Cite this Entry
“Doctor.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/doctor. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
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