health science glossary

15 health science terms

This glossary presents essential health science vocabulary to help students understand key concepts in their program

anatomy
noun
the scientific study of the structure and organization of living organisms, including their parts and how they are arranged
Example: We studied the anatomy of the human heart in class.
en: anatomie
Diagram of a skeleton
cell
noun
The smallest structural and functional unit of living organisms.
Example: The human body is made of trillions of cells.
en: cellule
a human cell
diagnosis
noun
The identification of a disease or condition based on symptoms and tests.
Example: The doctor made a diagnosis of pneumonia.
en: diagnostic
Doctor writing on a medical chart.
immunization
noun
A process by which a person becomes protected against a disease through a vaccine.
Example: Childhood immunization prevents serious illnesses.
en: immunisation
Nurse giving a child a vaccine.
infection
noun
The invasion of the body by harmful microorganisms.
Example: The wound was cleaned to prevent infection.
en: infection
Germs attacking cells illustration.
laboratory
noun
place equipped for scientific experiments and medical
Example: The laboratory tested the patient’s blood for infections.
en: laboratoire
Lab technician with test tubes.
physician
noun
A medical doctor who diagnoses and treats illnesses.
Example: The physician prescribed antibiotics.
en: médecin
a physician
physiology
noun
study of how the parts of the body work and function
Example: Physiology explains how the lungs supply oxygen to the blood.
en: physiologie
breathing process.
rehabilitation
noun
A program to help someone recover physical or mental health.
Example: The patient joined a rehabilitation program after his injury.
en: réhabilitation
Person doing exercises with assistance.
specimen
noun
A sample of blood, urine, or tissue used for medical testing.
Example: The lab received a blood specimen for analysis.
en: échantillon
Test tube labeled with blood sample.
sterile
adjective
Completely free from bacteria or other living microorganisms
Example: he surgeon used sterile instruments for the operation.
en: stérile
Medical instruments in sterile packaging.
temperature
noun
measure of body heat that shows health status.
Example: The child had a temperature of 39°C.
en: température
Thermometer showing temperature
therapy
noun
A treatment designed to relieve or heal a disorder.
Example: Physical therapy helped the patient recover after surgery.
en: thérapie
Physiotherapist helping a patient walk.
treatment
noun
Medical care given to a patient to cure or manage an illness.
Example: The patient responded well to the treatment.
en: traitement
Nurse giving medication.
vaccine
noun
A substance that protects against a specific disease by stimulating the immune system.
Example: The flu vaccine is recommended every year.
en: vaccin
Syringe with vaccine vial.