retrospectoscope
n.— «The view through scopes—colonoscopes, arthroscopes and laparoscopes, to name a few—routinely aids physicians in narrowing diagnoses and arriving at a plan of care. But none is as illuminating as the one doctors refer to as the “retrospectoscope,” the scope of hindsight. The retrospectoscope brings startling clarity to the most mysterious disease processes: difficult decisions become brilliant choices, minor missteps turn into devastating errors, and the best of intentions can transform into deep regret and persistent what-if’s.» —“From Medical School to Middle Age ” by Pauline W. Chen New York Times Apr. 7, 2009. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)
Further reading
Unwrap the name of a candy bar, and you just might find a story inside. For instance, one chewy treat found in many a checkout lane is named after a family’s beloved horse. And: 50 years ago in the United States, some Latino elementary...
While compiling the Oxford English Dictionary, lexicographer James Murray exchanged hundreds of letters a week with authors, advisors, and volunteer researchers. A new collection online lets you eavesdrop on discussions about which words should be...