convalescence
Americannoun
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the gradual recovery of health and strength after illness.
-
the period during which one is convalescing.
noun
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gradual return to health after illness, injury, or an operation, esp through rest
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the period during which such recovery occurs
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of convalescence
From the Late Latin word convalēscentia, dating back to 1480–90. See convalesce, -ence
Explanation
When someone has been severely hurt or very ill, they must go through a period of convalescence during which they rest and recuperate in order to regain their strength and health. Convalescence varies depending on the severity of the problem. The Latin convalēscere means "to regain health." The actual period of convalescence is from when you first get sick until your complete recovery. Convalescence for an illness is often accompanied by various medicines, the most effective of which often include TLC and hot chicken soup. Playwright George Bernard Shaw once quipped, "I enjoy convalescence. It is the part that makes the illness worth while."
Vocabulary lists containing convalescence
Power Suffix: -escence
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East of Eden
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"Wuthering Heights" by Emily Bronte, Chapters 15–20
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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.
So naturally, like a hoarder who self-soothes watching Marie Kondo videos, I was immediately drawn to Scottish physician and author Gavin Francis's new book from the title alone: "Recovery: The Lost Art of Convalescence."
From Salon • Sep. 9, 2023
Convalescence here was presented as an essentially professional activity, like day-trading.
From The New Yorker • May 13, 2013
Convalescence is expected to last through the summer.
From Time Magazine Archive
Convalescence, once a slow and leisurely period, keeps getting shorter.
From Time Magazine Archive
Convalescence was very slow; notwithstanding she had no more fever it was three weeks before she felt perfectly well.
From New, Old, and Forgotten Remedies: Papers by Many Writers by Anshutz, Edward Pollock
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
