ENGLISH
REFERENCE

hospice

n. C / U
C1 Advanced US //ˈhɑspəs// UK //hˈɒspɪs// hos·pice Archaic

n. a special place or type of care for people who are very sick and near the end of their lives. It focuses on making the person comfortable and peaceful rather than curing them.

n. a facility or program designed to provide palliative care and emotional support for terminally ill patients. Focuses on quality of life and pain management during the final stages of a disease.


SIMPLE

The family decided to move their grandfather into a hospice.

CONTEXTUAL

After the hospital treatments stopped working, the medical team recommended hospice care to ensure the patient remained comfortable at home.

COMPLEX

Modern hospice philosophy emphasizes the dignity of the individual, providing a holistic approach that addresses the psychological, spiritual, and physical needs of those facing the end of life.

Usage

Often used without an article in British English ('in hospice') when referring to the type of care, similar to 'in hospital'.

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