I. ˈpā-shənt adjective
Etymology: Middle English pacient, from Anglo-French, from Latin patient-, patiens, from present participle of pati to suffer; perhaps akin to Greek pēma suffering
Date: 14th century
1. : bearing pains or trials calmly or without complaint
2. : manifesting forbearance under provocation or strain
3. : not hasty or impetuous
4. : steadfast despite opposition, difficulty, or adversity
5.
a. : able or willing to bear — used with of
b. : susceptible , admitting
patient of one interpretation
• pa·tient·ly adverb
II. noun
Date: 14th century
1.
a. : an individual awaiting or under medical care and treatment
b. : the recipient of any of various personal services
2. : one that is acted upon