'orthopedic' originates from Greek, specifically the elements 'orthos' and 'paideia', where 'orthos' meant 'straight' and 'paideia' meant 'rearing' or 'education'.

'orthopedic' (and the related noun 'orthopedics/orthopaedics') was coined via French 'orthopédie' in the 18th century (from Nicolas Andry's work) and entered English as 'orthopaedic'; the simplified spelling 'orthopedic' later became common, especially in American English.

Initially it meant 'to correct or prevent deformities in children' (literally 'straighten children'), but over time it broadened to mean the medical treatment and surgical care of the musculoskeletal system for all ages.