veterinarian

Everyday

A veterinarian is a doctor who looks after sick and injured animals and helps keep them healthy. tree →

In the lessons

Used about pets, farms and zoos; in stories and jobs lessons. Mostly American and Canadian; in the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand people usually say «vet». Phrases: «take the dog to the veterinarian».

Examples

• The veterinarian gave our puppy its first injections. tree →
• My aunt is a veterinarian who works with horses. tree →
• The farmer called the veterinarian when the cow was ill. tree →
• Zoo veterinarians look after lions and elephants. tree →
• To become a veterinarian you study for many years. tree →
• The veterinarian checked the cat's teeth and ears. tree →
• We took the injured bird to a veterinarian. tree →

Note

Long word: vet-er-ih-NAIR-ee-un. Short form «vet» is used everywhere and is the usual word in the UK and Australia; the formal British word is «veterinary surgeon». Do not confuse «vet» (animal doctor) with «vet» short for «veteran» (a former soldier, US).