1
: able to remain calm and not become annoyed when waiting for a long time or when dealing with problems or difficult people
I hate having to stand in long lines. I'm just not very patient.
The teacher treated her students in a patient and understanding way.
"Aren't you finished yet?" "Be patient. I'll be done soon."
—often + withThe teacher was patient with her students.
2
: done in a careful way over a long period of time without hurrying
Proofreading requires patient attention to detail.
They put in years of patient labor/work on the project.
plural patients
: a person who receives medical care or treatment
Several patients were waiting to see the doctor/dentist.
hospital/cancer patients
Cite this Entry
“Patient.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/patient. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.
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