veterinarian

noun

vet·​er·​i·​nar·​i·​an ˌve-tə-rə-ˈner-ē-ən  ˌve-trə- 

ˌve-tə-ˈner-

plural veterinarians

: a person qualified and authorized to practice veterinary medicine

Other diagnostic procedures that may be used include imaging techniques such as ultrasound and bronchoscopy, which enables a veterinarian to examine the interior of an animal's airway …

—Tom Ewing

If your cat shows signs of anaphylaxis, take it to a veterinarian immediately.

—Amy D. Shojai

Examples of veterinarian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Strokes are considered medical emergencies and treatment should be instituted within 3 hours of onset of symptoms for the best outcome, according to the veterinarian website. —Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 13 Dec. 2024

Always dilute oils and consult a veterinarian. Use products specifically formulated for pets. —Sara Hansen, The Denver Post, 13 Dec. 2024

Despite further warnings and additional visits — including one on Nov. 12 with animal humane agents and veterinarians — the owners failed to bring conditions into compliance with Minnesota law. —Forum News Service, Twin Cities, 10 Dec. 2024

The museum also had a veterinarian and doctor on site, as well as animal welfare representatives. —Julia Binswanger, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

veterinarian

noun

vet·​er·​i·​nar·​i·​an ˌvet-ə-rən-ˈer-ē-ən  ˌve-trən- 

ˌvet-ᵊn-

: a person who is qualified and has been given the authority to treat diseases and injuries of animals

Medical Definition

veterinarian

noun

vet·​er·​i·​nar·​i·​an ˌvet-ə-rən-ˈer-ē-ən  ˌve-trən- 

ˌvet-ᵊn-

: a person qualified and authorized to practice veterinary medicine