(in´pa-shәnt) a patient who comes to a hospital or other health care facility for diagnosis or treatment that requires an overnight stay. Found on http://www.encyclo.co.uk/local/21001
In'pa`tient noun A patient who receives lodging and food, as well as treatment, in a hospital or an infirmary; -- distinguished from outpatient . Found on http://www.encyclo.co.uk/webster/I/65
Inpatient: A patient whose care requires a stay in a hospital. As opposed to an outpatient. The term inpatient dates back to at least 1760. The case of an inpatient was referred to an incase. Found on http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=39152