Dictionary entry

Patient

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Pa″tient (pā″shent), a. [F., fr. L. patiens, -entis, p. pr. of pati to suffer. Cf. Pathos, Passion.] 1. Having the quality of enduring; physically able to suffer or bear.

Patient of severest toil and hardship. Bp. Fell.

2. Undergoing pains, trials, or the like, without murmuring or fretfulness; bearing up with equanimity against trouble; long-suffering.

3. Constant in pursuit or exertion; persevering; calmly diligent; as, patient endeavor.

Whatever I have done is due to patient thought. Sir I. Newton.

4. Expectant with calmness, or without discontent; not hasty; not overeager; composed.

Not patient to expect the turns of fate. Prior.

5. Forbearing; long-suffering.

Be patient toward all men. 1 Thess. v. 14.