The spelling of the word "infirmary" can be confusing due to its pronunciation. IPA phonetic transcription can help clarify: /ɪnˈfɜːməri/. The "in" and "fer" sounds are straightforward, but the "a" is pronounced as a short "e" sound. The "ry" is also pronounced as "ree" instead of "ri". Therefore, the correct spelling may not be immediately clear. The word refers to a place where people are treated for illness or injury, typically in a hospital or clinic.
An infirmary is a noun that refers to a facility or a designated area within an institution, such as a hospital, where medical care is provided to the sick, injured, or convalescing individuals. It is typically a segregated section set up to accommodate the medical needs of patients who require treatment, observation, or temporary care.
Infirmaries are equipped with medical equipment, supplies, and staffed by healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers who specialize in various fields. They offer a range of medical services, diagnostic tests, medications, and surgical procedures to promote healing and recovery.
Infirmary is a term often associated with institutions such as hospitals, schools, prisons, or military establishments, where medical attention is provided to individuals within those specific communities. It serves as a place where patients can receive basic healthcare services or undergo further treatment before they are either discharged or transferred to another unit for continuing care.
In addition to medical care, infirmaries may also offer psychological support, counseling, and rehabilitation services to help patients recover and attain optimal health. The establishment of an infirmary within an institution demonstrates a commitment to ensuring the overall well-being and welfare of its members.
A hospital for the sick poor; a place for gratuitous medical relief.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "infirmary" comes from the Latin term "infirmarium", which is derived from the Latin word "infirmus" meaning "weak" or "sick". "Infirmarium" originally referred to a place where monastic communities cared for the sick and infirm members within their ranks. Over time, the term evolved to encompass any institution or facility where medical treatment, especially for those who are ill or injured, is provided.