psychiatric

word

/ˌsaɪkiˈætɹɪk/
sy-kee-A-trik
/sˌaɪkɪˈætɹɪk/
sy-kee-A-trik

Definition

Related to the study, treatment, or care of mental illnesses and disorders.

Usage & Nuances

Used as an adjective before nouns like 'hospital', 'care', 'treatment', or 'disorder'. Formal, medical context; not used to describe people (say 'psychiatric patient', not 'he is psychiatric'). Sometimes confused with 'psychological' (broader, not always illness-related).

Example Sentences

She works at a psychiatric hospital.

basic

Many people need psychiatric care at some point.

basic

He received psychiatric treatment after the accident.

basic

The doctor referred her to a psychiatric specialist for further evaluation.

natural

After weeks in the psychiatric ward, he started to feel better.

natural

There are not enough psychiatric services in rural areas.

natural