convalescence
Americannoun
-
the gradual recovery of health and strength after illness.
-
the period during which one is convalescing.
noun
-
gradual return to health after illness, injury, or an operation, esp through rest
-
the period during which such recovery occurs
Other Word 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
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
East of Eden
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
"Wuthering Heights" by Emily Bronte, Chapters 15–20
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
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.
His seven-person medical team were indicted over the conditions of his convalescence in the northern Buenos Aires suburb of Tigre, described by prosecutors as grossly negligent.
From Barron's ● Apr. 14, 2026
After his convalescence, he said, his supervisor told him to take a dangerous road back to the Zabul base — a day’s drive for a journey commonly traveled by air.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 23, 2025
"Their Majesties send The Pope their best wishes for his convalescence and look forward to visiting him in The Holy See, once he has recovered," the palace said.
From BBC ● Mar. 25, 2025
She turned 21 during her convalescence, and the radical loss of control made her question everything.
From New York Times ● May 22, 2024
The swelling went out of her cheeks and the prettiness of convalescence came to her face.
From "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck
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.
