wholesome

Wholesome is an adjective used to describe things that promote health or well-being, physically or morally. It can refer to foods that are nutritious and minimally processed, content that is sincere or uplifting, or people who exhibit kindness and reliability. The term connotes safety and virtue, avoiding excess or harm.

Etymology: The word derives from the adjective whole, with the suffix -some meaning “tending to cause” or “characterized by.” In English, it dates from the late Middle Ages, with the primary sense being healthful or beneficial to physical well-being, later extending to moral and emotional dimensions.

Common uses include describing food (wholesome ingredients), media and entertainment (wholesome family-friendly programs), and lifestyle choices (wholesome routines). In marketing, the term is often used to signal safety and virtue, though it can be perceived as vague or sentimental.

In contemporary internet culture, "wholesome" is sometimes paired with memes or communities that celebrate acts of kindness, often in a light, affectionate way. The word can carry different connotations depending on context, from genuine praise to ironic or sarcastic understatement.

Related terms include wholesome foods, wholesome media, and wholesome living.