C1adjectiveformal5K

Psychiatric

UK /["/ˌsaɪkiˈætrɪk/"]/US /["/ˌsaɪkiˈætrɪk/"]/

Definition

relating to psychiatry or to mental illnesses

In simple words: Relating to mental health or treating mental illnesses.

Examples

  • **psychiatric disorders**
  • a psychiatric hospital/nurse/patient
  • psychiatric treatment

Usage notes

Use 'psychiatric' in medical or professional contexts when discussing mental health treatments or institutions. Avoid using it in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'psyche' for mind and 'iatric' like a doctor - a doctor for the mind.

Collocations

  • psychiatric evaluation
  • psychiatric disorder
  • psychiatric treatment
  • psychiatric care

Synonyms

  • mental health
  • psychological
  • therapeutic
  • clinical

Antonyms

  • physical
  • non-psychiatric

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'psychological' - both relate to the mind, but 'psychiatric' specifically refers to medical treatment.
  • Incorrectly using it as a noun instead of an adjective.