personal care

American  

noun

1. assistance in dressing, grooming, etc., provided to elderly, disabled, or other persons who are unable to care for themselves.

2. the act or process of dressing or grooming oneself.

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personal care British  

noun

1. help given to elderly or infirm people with essential everyday activities such as washing, dressing, and meals

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Other Word Forms

• personal-care adjective

Etymology

Origin of personal care

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

Recalling his early days in the city, he said his budget for food and personal care items, like shampoo, was $30 a week.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2026

Earlier this year, Fernando Fernandez, Unilever’s CEO and former president of the company’s beauty and well-being business, said the group was shifting its portfolio into more beauty, well-being and personal care.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 20, 2026

Prices for used vehicles and vehicle insurance, communications and personal care were down.

From Barron's • Mar. 11, 2026

The think tank found higher funding relative to England was the main factor allowing Scotland to have more generous public services, including smaller class sizes and free personal care services.

From BBC • Feb. 17, 2026

The officer worked by the side of his men in the grime and dirt, and at all times made the comfort of the jackies his personal care.

From The Battleship Boys' First Step Upward or, Winning Their Grades as Petty Officers by Patchin, Frank Gee