Langimage
English

convalesce

|con/va/lesce|

C1

/ˌkɒnvəˈlɛs/

recover health

Etymology
Etymology Information

'convalesce' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'convalescere,' where 'con-' meant 'together' and 'valescere' meant 'to grow strong.'

Historical Evolution

'convalescere' transformed into the Old French word 'convalescer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'convalesce' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to grow strong together,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'recovering health and strength.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to recover one's health and strength over a period of time after an illness or medical treatment.

After the surgery, she needed several weeks to convalesce.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42