rest cure

noun

1. a treatment for nervous disorders, consisting of a complete rest, usually combined with systematic diet, massage, etc., especially at a spa or sanitorium.

rest-cure

noun

1. a rest taken as part of a course of medical treatment, as for stress, anxiety, etc
2. an easy undemanding time or assignment: usually used with a negative

   it's no rest-cure, I can assure you

Word History and Origins

Origin of rest cure¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

You may also catch echoes of Paolo Sorrentino’s “Youth” in the mountain rest-cure setting, the weary disdain for modern life and the visual voluptuousness.

From New York Times

But even a rest-cure isn't likely to restore Boracay to its former preeminence, he says.

From Wall Street Journal

I'm not as strong for this rest-cure idea as you seem to think I am.

From Project Gutenberg

"Imagine some months in Paris by way of rest-cure!"

From Project Gutenberg

One of his little playfellows, a grandson of Lord Portman, suddenly disappeared from the gay scene; I inquired where he was, and was told that he had gone for a rest-cure.

From Project Gutenberg