'physician' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'physicien', ultimately from Latin 'physicus' and Greek 'physikos', where Greek 'physis' meant 'nature'.

'physician' changed from Middle English 'physicien' (from Old French 'fisicien'), which came from Latin 'physicus' and Greek 'physikos'; over time the term narrowed from a general follower of natural philosophy to a medical practitioner.

Initially it meant 'someone versed in natural philosophy or the use of remedies (one who practices physic)'; over time it evolved into the current meaning of 'a licensed medical doctor'.