just what the doctor ordered

Idioms

Exactly what was needed. For example, This steak is just what the doctor ordered, or You've been a great help in our office—just what the doctor ordered. This expression alludes to a physician's prescription for a cure. [First half of 1900s]

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A more forgiving environment in Washington, D.C., combined with a slowing economy could be just what the doctor ordered for pharma stocks.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 2, 2025

In that regard, the Indo-Pacific Quad will be just what the doctor ordered.

From BBC • Feb. 11, 2025

For some, it may be just what the doctor ordered for a mid-December mind vacation.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 12, 2024

Fortunately for those of us who are incarcerated, pen-pal services are just what the doctor ordered.

From Slate • Sep. 12, 2023

But on this occasion, a fernibuster was just what the doctor ordered.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023