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

Today — April 1st — we imagine, with our tongues blithely thrust deep into our cheeks, just how far wellness trends could go in 2026.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

The latest move would allow the company to further sharpen its focus on higher‑growth beauty, personal care, and wellness categories.

From Barron's • Mar. 31, 2026

Maria Semple, the bestselling author and TV comedy trailblazer, goes to a downtown Manhattan wellness spot for a cold plunge every day.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

At their home, a large one-story villa off a dirt road leading to the town’s main street, Scott introduces me to a lifestyle designed to promote wellness.

From Slate • Mar. 30, 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