Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

locum-tenens

noun
/ˌloʊ.kəmˈtɛn.ɪs/
Definition
A person who temporarily fulfills the duties of another, especially a physician or other professional, during their absence.
Examples
  • The hospital hired a locum-tenens to cover for the surgeon who was on leave.
  • During the busy holiday season, many clinics rely on locum-tenens to meet patient demands.
  • As a locum-tenens, she enjoyed the flexibility of working in different cities.
Meaning
Typically used in a medical context, a locum-tenens is a substitute for a regular professional such as a doctor or nurse.
Synonyms
  • substitute
  • replacement
  • stand-in