health

noun

ˈhelth How to pronounce health (audio)
 also  ˈheltth
often attributive
1
a
: the condition of being sound in body, mind, or spirit
She is the picture of health.
especially : freedom from physical disease or pain
nursed them back to health
b
: the general condition of the body
How is your mother's health?
in poor health
enjoys good health
2
a
: a condition in which someone or something is thriving or doing well : well-being
defending the health of the beloved oceansPeter Wilkinson
b
: general condition or state
poor economic health
3
: a toast to someone's health or prosperity

Examples of health in a Sentence

We nursed him back to health. He's in good health these days. He has continued to enjoy good health in his old age. Smoking is bad for your health. He is concerned about his sister's mental health. We must protect the health of our oceans. The economy is in a period of robust financial health. Investors are worried about the company's health.
Recent Examples on the Web In promotion for the upcoming series, Jon shed some light on his health at Hulu's panel for the new docuseries in late February. Charna Flam, Peoplemag, 8 Mar. 2024 Meta House's plans meet the special use criteria of protecting public safety and health, and do not raise concerns about nearby property values or traffic impact, according to the department. Tom Daykin, Journal Sentinel, 7 Mar. 2024 The new series, Wiggle and Learn, teaches children language development, math, social skills, health, world understanding, and more. Anna Halkidis, Parents, 7 Mar. 2024 In consulting with medical professionals it’s become increasingly clear that continuing any festival or tour dates would jeopardize my long-term health and safety. Steven J. Horowitz, Variety, 7 Mar. 2024 Despite that directive, some patients who achieved their health and weight goals with the drugs are looking for an off-ramp, said Dr. Amy Rothberg, a University of Michigan endocrinologist who directs a weight-management and diabetes treatment program. Jonel Aleccia, Fortune, 7 Mar. 2024 State health officials say Livar began his work at the Health Department as an epidemiologist in 2012, assisting with state efforts covering border health and unexplained deaths. Stephanie Innes, The Arizona Republic, 7 Mar. 2024 Pepper, who proved to be in good health after medical evaluations, was found just 714 feet from her house, the rescue said. Paloma Chavez, Sacramento Bee, 7 Mar. 2024 Use Mars’ harmonizing connection to Chiron to tackle recurring work, health, or home conflicts. USA TODAY, 6 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'health.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English helthe, from Old English hǣlth, from hāl

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of health was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near health

Cite this Entry

“Health.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/health. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

health

noun
1
a
: the condition of being sound in body, mind, or spirit
especially : freedom from disease
b
: the overall condition of the body
in poor health
2
: flourishing condition
3
: a toast to someone's health or success
drink a health
Etymology

Old English hǣlth "health," from hāl "healthy" — related to hale entry 1

Medical Definition

health

noun
often attributive
1
: the condition of an organism or one of its parts in which it performs its vital functions normally or properly : the state of being sound in body or mind
dental health
mental health
especially : freedom from physical disease and pain
nursed him back to health
compare disease
2
: the condition of an organism with respect to the performance of its vital functions especially as evaluated subjectively or nonprofessionally
how is your health today

More from Merriam-Webster on health

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