noun
doctor
DOK-tuh
noun
1
A person trained and licensed to treat sick or injured people.
"She saw a doctor about the persistent cough."
"The doctor prescribed antibiotics for the infection."
2
A person who holds a doctorate, such as a PhD.
"He earned the title of doctor after finishing his dissertation."
verb
1
To alter something, often dishonestly, to change how it appears.
"The photo had clearly been doctored before it was posted online."
2
To add something harmful or unwanted to food or drink.
"He was accused of doctoring the drinks at the party."
How to Use Doctor
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA medical professional or degree-holder, or (as a verb) to tamper with something to change its meaning or content.
Common mistake
In the UK, "doctor" for a physician is used more broadly than in some countries where "physician" is the formal term; the verb sense ("doctored evidence") always implies dishonesty.
Common pairings
see a doctor
doctor's appointment
doctored photo
family doctor
Word Forms
doctored past tense, doctors plural, Doctors plural, doctors singular
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She saw a _____ about the persistent cough.
Etymology
From Latin doctor, "teacher," from docere, "to teach."