health

[helth]

noun

1. the general condition of the body or mind with reference to soundness and vigor.

   good health;

   poor health.

2. soundness of body or mind; freedom from disease or ailment.

   to have one's health;

   to lose one's health.

   Synonyms: stamina, fitness, strength, vitality, vigor

3. a polite or complimentary wish for a person's health, happiness, etc., especially as a toast.

   We drank a health to our guest of honor.

4. vigor; vitality.

   economic health.

health

/ hɛlθ /

noun

1. the state of being bodily and mentally vigorous and free from disease

2. the general condition of body and mind

   in poor health

3. the condition of any unit, society, etc

   the economic health of a nation

4. a toast to a person, wishing him or her good health, happiness, etc

5. (modifier) of or relating to food or other goods reputed to be beneficial to the health

   health food

   a health store

6. (modifier) of or relating to health, esp to the administration of health

   a health committee

   health resort

   health service

interjection

1. an exclamation wishing someone good health as part of a toast (in the phrases your health, good health, etc)

Other Word Forms

• healthward adjective
• subhealth noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of health¹

First recorded before 1000; Middle English helthe, Old English hǣlth; hale ¹, whole, -th ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of health¹

Old English hǣlth; related to hāl _hale ¹

Idioms and Phrases

see clean bill of health.

Example Sentences

Their method is aimed at improving forecasting across many areas of science, particularly in health research, biology and the social sciences.

Read more on Science Daily

Some of the approaches most strongly supported by scientific evidence, such as strict dieting for health and longevity, can be difficult to follow consistently.

Read more on Science Daily

The study also helps explain the "exercise paradox," where a single intense workout causes stress but long-term training improves overall health.

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The political rivals, both in their 70s, are said to be in poor health.

Read more on BBC

The mental health nurse has become one of TikTok's most unexpected success stories and she admitted: "It's slightly overwhelming that everyone recognises me," but said is she is proud of what she's achieved.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• energy 
• fitness 
• strength 
• well-being