B2nounformal2K

Surgeon

UK /["/ˈsɜːdʒən/"]/US /["/ˈsɜːrdʒən/"]/

Definition

a doctor who is trained to perform surgery (= medical operations that involve cutting open a person’s body)

In simple words: A doctor who performs operations on people.

Examples

  • a **brain/heart surgeon**
  • Surgeons performed two operations on him yesterday.
  • He is determined to qualify as a surgeon.
  • Many people are terrified at the thought of the surgeon's knife.
  • Surgeons removed her right leg above the knee.
  • the surgeon who will operate on you

Usage notes

Used in medical contexts, often formal. It's best to use when speaking about medical professionals or in healthcare discussions. Avoid in casual conversation unless discussing health topics specifically.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think 'surgery'—a surgeon is someone who performs surgery.

Collocations

  • distinguished
  • eminent
  • leading
  • be
  • work as
  • become
  • operate
  • perform something
  • insert something
  • the surgeon’s knife

Synonyms

  • doctor
  • physician
  • medical professional
  • operator
  • surgeon specialist

Antonyms

  • patient
  • non-surgeon
  • layperson

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'surge' which is a different action.
  • Incorrectly using it as a verb, e.g., 'He surgeon the patient.'