Pronunciation: [dˈɒktəli] (IPA) 
Doctorly is a rarely used adjective meaning "resembling or characteristic of a doctor." Phonetically, the word can be transcribed as /ˈdɒktəli/ (dok-tuh-lee). The initial sound is pronounced like "doct" with a short "o" sound, followed by a schwa sound before the "t" and "l" sounds at the end of the word. The spelling of doctorly derives from the noun doctor, with the addition of the suffix "-ly" to denote that it is an adjective.
Doctorly (adjective):
1. Relating to or characteristic of a doctor, particularly one who practices medicine or holds a doctoral degree.
2. Displaying qualities or behaviors typically associated with doctors, such as professionalism, expertise, and an empathetic approach to patient care.
3. Pertaining to the specific tasks, responsibilities, or skills required of doctors in their practice of medicine.
4. Demonstrating medical knowledge, diagnostic skills, and aptitude in treating and managing ailments, diseases, or injuries.
5. Descriptive of actions or decisions made by medical professionals, which reflect their authority and expertise in the field.
6. Referring to the manner in which doctors communicate, interact, or collaborate with patients, colleagues, or other healthcare professionals, often characterized by a compassionate and respectful demeanor.
7. Indicative of a doctor's commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with the latest advancements, research, and practices in their respective medical specialty.
8. Relating to the ethical, legal, and moral obligations that doctors uphold, including maintaining patient confidentiality, informed consent, and ensuring the highest standards of care.
In summary, "doctorly" refers to anything related to the medical profession, encompassing the qualities, skills, responsibilities, and behaviors associated with doctors. It encapsulates their expertise, compassion, professionalism, and commitment to patient care, while also considering the knowledge, actions, and ethical principles that guide their practice.
Like a learned man.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "doctorly" is derived from the noun "doctor" combined with the suffix "-ly".
The noun "doctor" originated from the Latin word "doctor" meaning "teacher" or "scholar". It was derived from the verb "docere", which means "to teach". In the Middle English period, "doctor" referred specifically to a person who held the highest degree in a faculty of arts or theology. Over time, it came to be associated with medical practitioners.
The suffix "-ly" is a commonly used suffix in English that is added to adjectives to form adverbs. It denotes manner, similarity, or quality. In the case of "doctorly", the suffix transforms the adjective "doctor" into an adverb, indicating something related to or characteristic of a doctor.
