bonesetter

noun

bone·​set·​ter ˈbōn-ˌse-tər How to pronounce bonesetter (audio)
: a person who sets broken or dislocated bones usually without being a licensed physician

Examples of bonesetter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Across from a chocolate maker, a collective of herbalists, midwives, and bonesetters operate a small medicinal garden with plots of mugwort and rue, selling soaps and supplements out of their shop. Julien Capmeil, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Mar. 2020

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'bonesetter.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1518, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bonesetter was circa 1518

Dictionary Entries Near bonesetter

Cite this Entry

“Bonesetter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bonesetter. Accessed 10 May. 2024.

Medical Definition

bonesetter

noun
bone·​set·​ter -ˌset-ər How to pronounce bonesetter (audio)
: a person who sets broken or dislocated bones usually without being a licensed physician
The early bonesetters treated fractures of the limb by applying a wooden splint wrapped in bandages, or a type of plaster made from cow's milk, barley or acacia leaves held with gum and water, to surround the limb.S. A. Phillips and L. C. Biant, The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery
Traditional bonesetters … have been in Nigeria for centuries. Up to 85% of patients with fractures present first to the traditional bonesetters before coming to the hospital and therefore this mode of care delivery cannot be overlooked in Nigeria.A. B. Omololu et al., Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
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