The phrase denotes a specific character or costume theme frequently associated with the Halloween season. It typically combines elements of medical professionals (doctors), undead creatures (zombies), and the overall ambiance linked to the October holiday of costuming and trick-or-treating. An example would be a Halloween costume depicting a medical practitioner, disfigured and decaying, implying reanimation and a connection to the holiday.
The popularity of this theme stems from its ability to blend readily recognized archetypes of horror and the macabre with the festive nature of the holiday. This amalgamation creates a recognizable visual shorthand. This particular figure may allow individuals to engage with themes of science gone awry, mortality, and the supernatural, all within the safe context of a celebratory tradition. Historically, Halloween has roots in harvest festivals and honoring the dead, providing a fertile ground for figures that straddle the line between life and death.
