The good doctor (phrase)

The phrase "the good doctor" is a cliché which is commonly used in reference to any physician, sometimes with an ironic tone. Its first use was almost certainly by Shakespeare, at the end of Act V, Scene 1 of Macbeth:

Doctor: ...So, good night:

My mind she has mated, and amazed my sight.

I think, but dare not speak.

Gentlewoman: Good night, good doctor. (Exeunt).

The phrase The Good Doctor has been used to refer to:

• Dr Jonathan Miller, British physician, theatre and opera director, television presenter, humourist and sculptor
• Dr. Samuel Johnson the lexicographer, who is to this day frequently referred to as "the Good Doctor".^[1][2][3]
• Dr. Hunter S. Thompson, journalist and creator of Gonzo Journalism
• Dr. Kenny Deuchar, Scottish footballer.
• Mark Kermode, movie critic
• Dr. Ron Paul, U.S. congressman and former physician.

References

1. ^ Words count | Review | guardian.co.uk Books
2. ^ http://www3.shropshire-cc.gov.uk/johnson.htm
3. ^ Contemporary Comments On The Death Of Samuel Johnson And The Death Of James Boswell