rehab

American  

[ree-hab] / ˈriˌhæb /

noun

1. rehabilitation, especially a program or facility for treating persons addicted to drugs or alcohol or recovering from certain medical conditions.

   He's been sober since coming out of rehab.

   She checked into rehab after suffering a stroke.

2. a rehabilitated building.

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adjective

1. of or relating to rehabilitation.

   funds for new rehab projects in the city.

verb (used with object)

rehabbed, rehabbing

1. to rehabilitate.

rehab British  

/ ˈriːhæb /

noun

1. short for rehabilitation

2. treatment for drink or drug addiction

3. informal short for Rehabilitation Department

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Other Word Forms

• rehabber noun

Etymology

Origin of rehab

By shortening

Example Sentences

The technology was initially used in hospitals and rehab settings to ease pain, prevent muscle atrophy and improve circulation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

But its ineffectual japing, and Michaels’ inability to help himself when it comes to normalizing repugnant behavior in the name of chasing the zeitgeist, makes it a popular stop on the image rehab express.

From Salon • Mar. 6, 2026

Here’s a to-do list for you and your siblings: Speak with the rehab facility’s social worker as soon as possible.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 4, 2026

Robotics companies tout their healthcare potential, with firms like Fourier already supplying rural rehab centres with devices like mechanical arms for physiotherapy.

From Barron's • Mar. 3, 2026

After a week or so, the nurse says Erin has been moved to a different building for rehab.

From "Boy21" by Matthew Quick

Related Words

• regimen
• rehabilitation
• therapy