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

For many, the interest has more to do with wellness than politics.

From The Wall Street Journal

As American Heart Month draws attention to cardiovascular wellness, a newly released scientific review is putting the spotlight on pecans, America's native nut, and their role in heart healthy eating patterns.

From Science Daily

Pro2col uses an individual’s data to build a personalized wellness plan specific to the individual.

From The Wall Street Journal

Police found the character actor in his Lower East Side apartment, Deadline reported, after neighbors heard Christmas music playing for days and one of them called authorities and the landlord for a wellness check.

From Los Angeles Times

Social media trends, wellness influencers, and claims of fast weight loss and improved metabolism have helped turn fasting into a mainstream strategy.

From Science Daily