Doctor
/ˈdɒk.tər/noun
A person who is qualified to practice medicine.
Did you know?In ancient Rome, doctors often had to swear an oath to Asclepius, the god of healing, invoking divine favor for their patients' recovery.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
docere
“To teach, instruct.”
Middle Ages
Old French
doctor
“A learned or learned person, especially in medicine.”
14th Century
Latin
doctor
“Teacher or instructor, particularly in a university context.”
Modern English
English
doctor
“Title for a qualified medical practitioner.”
Explore more surprising origins