# outpatient

/ˈaʊtˌpeɪʃənt/ (US) · /aʊtpˈeɪʃənt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/outpatient
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a person who goes to a hospital for treatment but does not stay there overnight. You visit the doctor or get a test and then go home the same day.

For teachers: a patient who receives medical treatment at a hospital or clinic without being admitted for an overnight stay.

## Examples

- The hospital treated her as an outpatient for her broken arm.
- Most minor surgeries are now performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to recover in the comfort of their own homes.
- The new wing of the medical center is dedicated entirely to outpatient services, streamlining the process for those requiring diagnostic imaging or physical therapy without hospitalisation.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a modifier before another noun ('outpatient clinic', 'outpatient surgery').

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.