locum tenens

noun

: one filling an office for a time or temporarily taking the place of another
used especially of a doctor or clergyman

Examples of locum tenens in a Sentence

I'm just a locum tenens, so any major decisions should be deferred until your regular doctor returns from vacation.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Forecasts from industry analysts suggest that per diem opportunities, or the ability for healthcare workers to fill in for shifts as needed, will expand, as will the utilization of locum tenens. Ascend Agency, New York Daily News, 1 Mar. 2024 When Whittingham stepped in as Meyer’s replacement in 2005, there were holes in the program after an undefeated season, and there were many lessons for the locum tenens to learn. Gordon Monson, The Salt Lake Tribune, 12 Nov. 2021 When service units are forced to hire temporary locum tenens physicians in lieu of decreasing services, the quality of care can change dramatically. WSJ, 17 July 2017

Word History

Etymology

Medieval Latin, literally, (one) holding a place

First Known Use

1640, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of locum tenens was in 1640

Dictionary Entries Near locum tenens

Cite this Entry

“Locum tenens.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/locum%20tenens. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.

Medical Definition

: a medical practitioner who temporarily takes the place of another
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