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There seems to be a misconception about the use of the word "doctor," as in who is deserving of that title. Some people refuse to use the title "doctor" when referring to people w/ a PhD. Here's why that is actually the *least* correct interpretation.1/
The word “doctor” is the agentive noun of the Latin verb docere (do-ke-re) which means “to teach”. Therefore, the word refers to anyone who has acquired sufficient knowledge in a subject to be a teacher of the subject 2/
Traditionally, the title belonged to Apostles and other Christian authorities who taught the Bible. Initially, the only institutions that could grant doctoral degrees were churches. You had to take and pass an exam, swear an Oath of allegiance, and pay a fee. 3/
In the 14th century, during the Renaissance when universities started emancipating themselves from the church, there was a big to-do about who was allowed to confer the title of doctor. Long story short, medieval universities won. 4/
"Doctor" ended up meaning the highest degree (above a baccalaureate), and simply conferred the right to teach. You know what it wasn't specific to? Medicine. In fact, through the 1600s-1700s, surgeons specifically would not have used the title. 5/
The medical hierarchy went physicians 
surgeons apothecaries, so while physicians could've received the title of doctor, a surgeon would have been referred to as "Mr." in the 1600s. 6/
surgeons apothecaries, so while physicians could've received the title of doctor, a surgeon would have been referred to as "Mr." in the 1600s. 6/
The reason for this was physicians had to go to universities while surgeons and apothecaries trained as apprentices. In the 18th century, surgeons and apothecaries rose in prominence, and began to have the title of doctor conferred upon them. 7/
TLDR; the word "doctor" is relevant for anyone who receives the highest degree from a university and is learned enough in their subject to teach.. most applicable to PhDs, it is now conferred on physicians. 8/
For more information: https://www.historyextra.com/period/georgian/when-did-medical-practitioners-start-to-be-called-doctor/
https://www.npr.org/2011/01/28/133306341/Science-Diction-The-Origin-Of-Physician https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/the-history-of-doctor
https://www.npr.org/2011/01/28/133306341/Science-Diction-The-Origin-Of-Physician https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/the-history-of-doctor
If you’re someone who refuses to call PhDs “doctor” it’s more than likely that you’re misusing the word. /fin
