Treatment Definition & Meaning | Britannica Dictionary (original) (raw)

Britannica Dictionary definition of TREATMENT

1

[noncount]

:

the way that you think of and act toward someone or something

• We don't deserve such rude treatment. [=we don't deserve to be treated so rudely]
• The principal's daughter received special/preferential treatment from teachers. [=teachers were kinder to and less strict with the principal's daughter than with other students]
• We want to ensure equal treatment for everyone.
• The law requires humane treatment of prisoners.

— see also silent treatment

2

a

[noncount]

:

the way that you deal with or discuss a subject

• It's a complicated issue that requires careful treatment.
• A five-minute news report on the subject does not allow for depth of treatment. [=does not allow the subject to be dealt with in a way that is complete, thorough, etc.]
• The book's treatment of this important issue is unimpressive.

b

[count]

:

something that deals with or discusses a subject

• Previous treatments of this topic have ignored some key issues.
• an interesting treatment

3

:

something that deals with a disease, injury, etc., in order to make someone feel better or become healthy again

:

medical care

[noncount]

• The patient required immediate medical treatment.
• She is receiving treatment for cancer.
• a treatment facility [=a place where you can get medical care]

[count]

• The drug has been approved as a treatment for AIDS.
• cancer treatments

4

[count]

:

something that you use or do to feel and look healthy or attractive

• Mud is sometimes used as a skin treatment.
• She went to a spa for a beauty treatment.

5

:

a process in which a chemical or other substance is put on or in something in order to protect it, preserve it, clean it, etc.

[count]

• A special treatment is used to kill bacteria in water.
• This treatment will protect the wood from rotting.

[noncount]

• The instruments are sterilized by treatment with alcohol.
• a waste/sewage treatment plant