# pathologist

/pəˈθɑɫədʒəst/ (US) · /pæθˈɒlədʒˌɪst/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pathologist
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a doctor who studies diseases by looking at body tissues and fluids. They often work in a lab to find out why someone is sick or how they died.

For teachers: a medical specialist who examines bodies and body tissues to determine the cause and nature of diseases. Often involves performing autopsies or analyzing laboratory samples to assist in clinical diagnosis.

## Examples

- The pathologist examined the tissue sample under a microscope.
- After the surgery, the doctor sent the tumor to a pathologist to check if it was cancerous.
- Forensic pathologists play a critical role in criminal investigations by determining the precise time and cause of death through detailed post-mortem examinations.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the context of hospital laboratories or forensic investigations.

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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.