Diagnose

/ˈdaɪəɡnoʊz/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To identify the nature or cause of a problem or condition, often related to illness.
The doctor was able to diagnose the rare disease after running several tests.
To determine the correct diagnosis for a medical condition.
The vet worked quickly to diagnose the dog's illness.
To analyze a situation and identify the problem.
The IT specialist was called in to diagnose the network issues affecting the office.
To examine and pinpoint a fault in a system.
The mechanic managed to diagnose the engine problem with just a few tests.

Etymology

From Greek 'diagnōsiskein', meaning 'to discern' or 'to distinguish'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

self-diagnose
To conclude or determine one's own medical condition without professional help.
diagnostic test
A medical test used to confirm a diagnosis.
misdiagnose
To incorrectly identify a disease or condition.

Related Words

diagnosis
The identification of the nature and cause of a certain phenomenon.
diagnostic
Related to the identification of a disease or condition.
symptom
A physical or mental feature that indicates a condition.

Slang Meanings

To figure out what's wrong.
He looked at the car and tried to diagnose it like a mechanic.
To check out or analyze quickly.
Let's diagnose this problem before we waste any time.