n. (pl. -ies) 1 the branch of medicine concerned with treatment of injuries or disorders of the body by incision, manipulation or alteration of organs etc., with the hands or with instruments. 2 Brit. a a place where a doctor, dentist, etc., treats patients. b the occasion of this (the doctor will see you after surgery). 3 Brit. a a place where an MP, lawyer, or other professional person gives advice. b the occasion of this.
[ ME f. OF surgerie f. L chirurgia f. Gk kheirourgia handiwork, surgery f. kheir hand + erg- work ]