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

As sperm health becomes a cultural fixation, wellness brands are fueling the demand by swarming the market with products such as male-fertility supplements and sperm-testing kits.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026

In recent months, prominent wellness podcasts hosted by men have dedicated entire episodes to male fertility.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026

The demand has given rise to a burgeoning gray market, where wellness spas, multilevel marketers and telehealth websites ply the public with vials of “research grade” peptides labeled “not for human use.”

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

Creating stronger flexibility, groundedness and rank body odor, shimmying around in 105 degree heat is having a wild, wild wellness moment.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

Nathan remembered what Devin had said: that the ceremony was only part of Uncle Jet’s path to wellness.

From "Healer of the Water Monster" by Brian Young