English Reference
Noun

carer

n.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈkɛɹɝ/ UK /kˈeəɹɐ/ car·er UK spelling carers

n.a person who looks after someone else, especially someone who is sick, old, or disabled. This is a formal word often used in medical or government contexts.

n.a person who provides care for someone else, typically in a professional or domestic setting. Often used in British English to describe those who provide long-term support to individuals with chronic health conditions or disabilities.


SIMPLE

The nurse is a professional carer for the elderly.

CONTEXTUAL

The government is increasing funding to support family carers who look after their relatives at home.

COMPLEX

While professional carers are essential for complex medical needs, many patients find that the emotional support provided by a close family member is equally vital to their recovery.

UK parents and carers: what costs do you face when sending your children to school?

The Guardian· 18 Aug 2026

We owe it to Matilda’s family, and to thousands of parent carers across the country, to listen to their experiences and act.

The Guardian· 14 Aug 2026

From care + -er.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated