Convalesce

Convalesce is a verb meaning to recover health and strength gradually after illness, injury, or medical treatment. The related noun convalescence refers to the period of gradual recovery. The term derives from Late Latin convalescere ("to become strong again"), from con- "with" + valere "to be strong." It entered English in the Middle Ages and has been used in medical writing to describe a staged return to full function following acute illness or surgery.

In practice, convalescence is a time for rest, renewed nutrition, and progressively resumed activity under appropriate medical guidance. It may occur at home, in a rehabilitation facility, or in a hospital ward designated for recovery. The pace and length vary widely depending on the illness, the patient’s baseline health, and complications. Convalescence emphasizes gradual improvement rather than a rapid return to pre-illness activity.

Adjectival form: convalescent; the noun convalescent is also used to describe a person undergoing convalescence, and historically, facilities such as convalescent homes or camps were established to care for convalescents.

Related terms include recuperate/recuperation and rehabilitation, which describe similar ideas of restoring health and function. In modern usage, clinicians advise gradual activity as tolerated, adequate rest, and monitoring for signs that recovery is not progressing as expected.