wellness

American  

[wel-nis] / ˈwɛl nɪs /

noun

1. the quality or state of being healthy in body and mind, especially as the result of deliberate effort.

2. an approach to healthcare that emphasizes preventing illness and prolonging life, as opposed to emphasizing treating diseases.

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wellness British  

/ ˈwɛlnəs /

noun

1. the state of being in good physical and mental health

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Etymology

Origin of wellness

First recorded in 1650–60, for an earlier sense; introduced in 1957 by U.S. biostatistician Halbert L. Dunn, M.D. (1896–1975), for the current senses; well ¹ (in the sense “in good health”) + -ness

Compare meaning

How does wellness compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• wellness vs. well-being

Example Sentences

While public discussion rightly emphasizes colorectal cancer screening beginning at age 45 and earlier for those at higher risk, routine wellness visits in young adults deserve attention as well.

From The Wall Street Journal

Beyond traditional cardiometabolic markers, the review also considers related outcomes tied to overall cardiometabolic wellness, including gut health and cognitive performance.

From Science Daily

On its website, the Lede Company says it represents “some of the biggest names and brands in entertainment, fashion, beauty & wellness, ... advocacy, media, nonprofit and related industries.”

From Los Angeles Times

"We have the ability to compete with much bigger countries thanks to our climate which reduces costs," he says, adding: "We're not trying to create an Amsterdam, this is about wellness."

From BBC

Some companies – in the US and now in the UK too – that offer wellness breaks are now advertising specific "retreats" targeting GLP-1 users.

From BBC