Merriam-Webster's Collegiate® Dictionary, 11th Edition
PATIENT
I. adjective
Etymology: Middle English pacient, from Anglo-French, from Latin patient-, patiens, from present participle of pati to suffer; perhaps akin to Greek pēma suffering
Date: 14th century
bearing pains or trials calmly or without complaint, manifesting forbearance under provocation or strain, not hasty or impetuous, steadfast despite opposition, difficulty, or adversity,
5. able or willing to bear, susceptible , admitting , patiently adverb
II. noun
Date: 14th century
1. an individual awaiting or under medical care and treatment, the recipient of any of various personal services, one that is acted upon