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Hospice
UK //ˈhɒspɪs//US //ˈhɑːspɪs//
Definition
A facility providing care for individuals in the final stages of a terminal illness.
In simple words: A place that provides care for people who are dying.
Examples
- The family decided to move their loved one to a hospice for better care.
- Hospice services focus on comfort and support rather than curing the illness.
- She spent her last days in hospice, surrounded by family and friends.
- Many hospice teams include social workers and chaplains to support families.
- Volunteers at the hospice help make the environment more welcoming.
Usage notes
Used in healthcare contexts, may not be appropriate in casual conversations. It's often associated with end-of-life care.
Grammar pattern
standalone noun
Memory hint
Sounds like 'host-pick' - imagine a host choosing to care for someone in their final days.
Collocations
- hospice care
- hospice services
- hospice staff
Synonyms
- palliative care
- end-of-life care
- terminal care
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'hospital' - a hospice is specific to end-of-life care.
- Using it in informal contexts - should be used in serious discussions about care.