Health

Definition

Health is a noun that refers to the state of being free from illness or injury. It encompasses physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hɛlθ/
• Respelling: HELTH

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hɛlθ/
• Respelling: HELTH

Etymology

The word "health" originates from Old English "hǣlþ," meaning "wholeness" or "soundness," derived from the Proto-Germanic "*hailithō." It is closely related to the Old High German "heilida" and Old Norse "heill," both of which also signify a state of being whole or uninjured.

Derivatives

• Healthy (adjective)
• Healthful (adjective)
• Unhealthy (adjective)
• Healthcare (noun)
• Healthiness (noun)

Synonyms

• Wellness
• Well-being
• Fitness

Antonyms

• Illness
• Disease
• Sickness

Usage

The noun "health" is commonly used in phrases like "Her health improved after the surgery" or "Mental health is as important as physical health." It appears in discussions of healthcare systems, personal fitness, and societal well-being.

Related Terms

• Well-being: A state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy.
• Fitness: The condition of being physically fit and healthy.
• Sanitation: Conditions related to public health, especially clean drinking water and adequate sewage disposal.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The state of being free from illness or injury: Refers to physical and mental soundness.
  • Example: "Regular exercise contributes to good health."
• A person's mental or physical condition: Describes the overall status of an individual's well-being.
  • Example: "The doctor is concerned about his health."
• Soundness in society or environment: Refers to the general well-being or functionality of a system.
  • Example: "The economic health of the nation is improving."