holistic

[ hoh-lis-tik ]

adjective

1. incorporating the concept of holism, or the idea that the whole is more than merely the sum of its parts, in theory or practice:

   holistic psychology.

2. Medicine/Medical. of or relating to a form of medicine, such as chiropractic or naturopathy, concerned with the care of the entire person in all aspects of well-being, including the physical, psychological, and social, rather than with diseases and symptoms in isolation, and often using natural or traditional remedies: Her holistic practitioner prescribed dietary changes and some relaxation exercises to reduce the frequency of her migraines.

   Someholistic medicine draws on traditional herbal preparations to maintain the health of different organs of the body.

   Her holistic practitioner prescribed dietary changes and some relaxation exercises to reduce the frequency of her migraines.

holistic

/ həʊˈlɪstɪk /

adjective

1. of or relating to a doctrine of holism
2. of or relating to the the medical consideration of the complete person, physically and psychologically, in the treatment of a disease

Derived Forms

• hoˈlistically, adverb

Other Words From

• ho·lis·ti·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of holistic¹

First recorded in 1926; hol(ism) + -istic

Example Sentences

In my experience, New York emphasizes a more holistic dining experience.

From Salon

Previously, Kennedy said he would redirect half of the national medical research budget to go toward “preventive, alternative and holistic approaches to health” and threatened to prosecute Dr. Anthony Fauci “if crimes were committed.”

From Salon

And while the "holistic approach" allows students to perform better in exams, Mr Stables says a lot of planning is needed to make sure every exam runs smoothly.

From BBC

This insight led communities to design a holistic solution for themselves.

From Salon

Holistic strategies like these are waiting to be unleashed in local communities all around the world.

From Salon

Related Words

• comprehensive
• integrated